ATM currency cassette door arrangement

ABSTRACT

An ATM includes a currency note dispenser having a currency cassette, a note picker, a note transporter, and a note presenter. A cassette tambour door automatically opens during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser. The picker can pick notes through the opening. A spring loaded housing wall tab retains the picker shaft in mating connection with a drive pin. The transporter can move notes vertically and horizontally. The transporter includes belts between an idle shaft and a drive shaft. The idle shaft is vertically movable relative to a drive shaft to maintain belt tension. The transporter also includes convexly tapered rollers that automatically recenter a loose belt. A presenter gate is at a note dispensing outlet of the ATM. The gate is opened by actuating a lever linked with an arm connected to the gate. The gate opens by moving a pin upward in an angled slot.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/453,609 filed Mar. 10, 2003, and the disclosurethereof is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This invention relates to automated banking machines.

BACKGROUND ART

[0003] Automated banking machines are known in the prior art. One typeof automated banking machine, known as an automated teller machine(ATM), allows a bank customer to conduct banking transactions withoutthe necessity of a banking employee directly taking part. Suchtransactions might include making deposits to accounts, checkingbalances, transferring finds, obtaining a cash withdrawal, or obtainingother items. As used herein, the phrase automated banking machine (orautomated transaction machine) is not intended to limit the scope of thedisclosure, but may include any type of device that enables automatingtransactions involving transfers representative of value.

[0004] Other types of automated banking machines may be used to dispensecurrency to a customer, bank teller, cashier or other service provider.Automated banking machines may be used to dispense various types ofitems to customers. Some types of automated banking machines maydispense items such as tickets, coupons, vouchers, or other items ofvalue. Automated banking machines generally store a multitude of suchitems in a fashion enabling the machine to quickly deliver one or moreitems without error. Some automated banking machines may accept depositsin the form of envelopes, checks, cash, or other items. Some automatedbanking machines may be used for providing credit, making bill payments,or to debit or deposit funds in various accounts.

[0005] The devices enabling storage and delivery of the sheet items mayat times require replenishing, maintenance, or repair. In automatedbanking machines such as those made by Diebold, Incorporated, theassignee of the present invention, sheet items that are dispensed aregenerally held in cassettes. The cassettes are enabled to be replaced byauthorized personnel who have gained access to a secure chest portion ofthe machine which houses the cassettes. This enables authorizedpersonnel to quickly replenish items to be dispensed. This can be doneby replacing the cassettes or by removing the cassettes, adding sheetsthereto and reinstalling the cassettes.

[0006] While replenishing sheet items may readily be accomplished, it issometimes necessary to conduct more extensive maintenance or repairactivities. In the event repair or replacement of certain components ofthe machine are necessary, the sheet dispenser assembly may need to beremoved from the housing. The weight and delicate nature of somecomponents of the sheet dispenser assembly can make removal andreinstallation of the dispenser mechanism difficult. The dispensermechanism may also include a number of stacked dispenser modules forstoring and selectively dispensing documents stored in the cassettes.The stacked dispenser modules may also need to be disassembled. Veryaccurate positioning and alignment of dispenser mechanism components areoften required for proper operation of the machine, which necessitatescare during reinstallation. The proper alignment and securement ofstacked dispenser modules are also required. All of these requirementsadd to the difficulty in servicing the dispenser mechanism.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

[0007] Thus there exists a need for an apparatus and method for moreeasily and/or efficiently operating, removing, disassembling, andreinstalling a sheet dispenser assembly of an automated banking machineto facilitate operation and servicing of components of the machine.

[0008] It is an object of an exemplary form of the present invention toprovide a dispenser assembly for an automated banking machine.

[0009] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a stackable dispenser module for an automatedbanking machine.

[0010] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a stackable multimedia dispenser module for anautomated banking machine.

[0011] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a dispenser module which can be locked to anotherdispenser module in stacked relation.

[0012] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a dispenser module which can be locked to anotherdispenser module in aligned relation.

[0013] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a multimedia dispenser module which can be lockedto another dispenser module in stacked and aligned relation for use inan automated banking machine.

[0014] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide an apparatus which enables a sheet dispenser of anautomated banking machine to be more readily serviced.

[0015] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a method of servicing an automated banking machine.

[0016] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a method of assembling dispenser modules intolocked and stacked relation for a sheet dispenser arrangement of anautomated banking machine.

[0017] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a method of disassembling dispenser modules from alocked and stacked relation.

[0018] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a method of servicing a sheet dispenser of anautomated banking machine that reduces the time and cost of removing andreinstalling dispenser modules.

[0019] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide an advanced function dispenser (AFD) having one ormore dispenser mechanisms operative to transport media such as currencynotes.

[0020] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a cassette door and interlocking pin arrangement.

[0021] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a picker shaft and drive pin releasable connection.

[0022] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a spring loaded wall tab that is able to retain apicker shaft in connection with a drive pin.

[0023] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide wire holders formed in a dispenser module wall.

[0024] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a sheet transporter including belts on an idlershaft and a drive shaft, with the idler shaft biased away from the driveshaft to maintain the belts in tension.

[0025] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a sheet transporter including belts trapped in asheet stack push plate, with the belts supported on crowned rollers.

[0026] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the presentinvention to provide a presenter gate arrangement, including a camactuated movable gate, and a flexible rail to roller relationshipoperative to generate a wavy configuration to sheets exiting thepresenter.

[0027] Further objects of exemplary forms of the present invention willbe made apparent in the following Best Mode for Carrying Out Inventionand the appended claims.

[0028] The foregoing objects are accomplished in an exemplary form ofthe invention which involves an automated banking machine dispenser. Anexemplary dispenser can have a currency cassette, a note picker, a notetransporter, and a note presenter. A cassette door can automaticallyopen during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser. The picker canpick notes through the opening. A picker shaft can be held in biasedmating engagement with a drive pin. The transporter can move notes inperpendicular directions (e.g., vertically and horizontally). Thetransporter can include an idle shaft and a drive shaft with beltstherebetween. The idle shaft can be movable relative to a drive shaft tomaintain belt tension. The transporter can also include tapered rollersthat assist in centering a belt thereon. The presenter can have a gateadjacent a note dispensing outlet. The gate can be opened by actuating alever linked with an arm in operative connection with the gate. Thelever and arm linking can include a pin relatively movable in a slot.

[0029] The dispenser can include dispenser modules which house valuabledocuments or sheets (e.g., items). The items may include for example,currency, coupons, tickets, scrip, vouchers, and phone cards. Thedispenser modules include structure which permits their securement toeach other in stacked and aligned relation. Each module includes a pairof side walls. Each module includes a projection plate and a biasinglatch arm on each side wall. The projection plates can be attached tothe side walls. The latches can be cut out from the sidewalls. Eachprojection plate includes a pin. Each side wall includes a slot adaptedto receive a pin.

[0030] Biasing tabs can also be cut out from the sidewalls. The tabs canbe used to guide and retain the projection plates during the securedstacking of the modules.

[0031] During a stacking assembly the plates are operative to compressthe latches. The latches are arranged to snap outward once a plate hasslid beyond latch compression and toward alignment of the module. Once alatch has snapped outward the plate is no longer permitted to move inthe opposite direction to again compress the latch.

[0032] Adjacent modules can be locked to each other due to latchespreventing the movement of pins from slots. That is, the projectionplates are prevented from movement in a first direction, because thepins would engage the side walls, and from movement in a second oppositedirection, because the projection plates would engage the latches. Thetabs can also be used to retain the pins in the slots.

[0033] Modules can be unlocked by compressing the latches, such as witha tool, to allow movement of the modules relative to each other.

[0034] Having easier ability to securely align and stack dispensermodules can facilitate repairs and/or replacement of dispenser mechanismcomponents and/or automated banking machine components by servicepersonnel. Sometimes it is desirable or necessary to entirely remove anddisassemble the dispenser mechanism from the machine for service orreplacement. The present invention provides a method of disassemblingand/or assembling stacked dispenser modules to facilitate repair orreplacement. The exemplary method of the invention also facilitatesinstallation of new or refilled dispenser modules in the machine.Existing dispenser mechanisms for automated banking machines may also beretrofit with dispenser modules of an exemplary form of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0035]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of an automated banking machine.

[0036]FIG. 2 shows an alternative form of an automated banking machine.

[0037]FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 show respective front, top, and side views ofthe machine of FIG. 2.

[0038]FIG. 6 shows a further alternative form of an automated bankingmachine.

[0039]FIGS. 7 and 8 show respective top and side views of the machine ofFIG. 6.

[0040]FIG. 9 shows a portion of an automated banking machine.

[0041]FIG. 10 shows an additional portion of an automated bankingmachine.

[0042]FIG. 11 is an isometric exploded view of a secure chest portionwith an access door open and a dispenser mechanism having lockeddispenser modules extended through the opening.

[0043]FIG. 12 shows a partial view of removably connected dispensermodules.

[0044]FIG. 13 shows a step in a process of connecting dispenser modules.

[0045]FIG. 14 also shows another step in a process of connectingdispenser modules.

[0046]FIG. 15 shows a partial end view of adjacent side walls ofconnected dispenser modules.

[0047]FIG. 16 shows an alternative end view of side walls of connecteddispenser modules.

[0048]FIG. 17 shows a dispenser module with a plurality of releasablelocking arrangements.

[0049]FIG. 18 shows a partial view of removably connected alternativedispenser modules.

[0050]FIG. 19 shows an alternative form of stacked dispenser moduleportions.

[0051]FIG. 20 is a different angled view of a dispenser module of FIG.19.

[0052]FIG. 21 shows a media cassette.

[0053]FIG. 22 shows a view of a tambour door portion of a cassette.

[0054]FIG. 23 shows an interlocking pin.

[0055]FIG. 24 shows another view of the interlocking pin of FIG. 23.

[0056]FIG. 25 shows a step in a door opening process.

[0057]FIG. 26 shows another step in the door opening process.

[0058]FIG. 27 shows a further step in the door opening process.

[0059]FIG. 28 shows a partial bottom view of a cassette with a door in apartly opened position.

[0060]FIG. 29 shows a partial bottom view of a cassette with a door in afully opened position.

[0061]FIG. 30 shows a dispenser module picker mechanism arrangement.

[0062]FIG. 31 shows a drive pin having a key.

[0063]FIG. 32 shows an alternative view of the drive pin of FIG. 31

[0064]FIG. 33 shows a picker shaft having a key hole.

[0065]FIG. 34 shows the drive pin of FIG. 32 and the picker shaft ofFIG. 33 in a mating arrangement.

[0066]FIG. 35 shows an alternative picker shaft and drive pin matingarrangement.

[0067]FIG. 36 shows a drive pin having a key and key hole.

[0068]FIG. 37 shows a picker shaft having a key and key hole.

[0069]FIG. 38 shows the drive pin of FIG. 36 and the picker shaft ofFIG. 37 in a mating arrangement.

[0070]FIG. 39 shows a dispenser module without the picker shaft.

[0071]FIG. 40 shows stacked dispenser modules having formed wiresupports.

[0072]FIG. 41 shows a view of a lower portion of a vertical transportmechanism.

[0073]FIG. 42 shows a view of the upper portion of the verticaltransport mechanism.

[0074]FIG. 43 shows another view of the upper portion.

[0075]FIG. 44 shows an additional view of the upper portion.

[0076]FIG. 45 shows a view of drive shaft rollers.

[0077]FIG. 46 shows a partial view of a horizontal transport mechanism.

[0078]FIG. 47 shows a presenter belt and push plate arrangement.

[0079]FIG. 48 shows a presenter gate arrangement with a gate in a closedposition.

[0080]FIG. 49 shows an additional view of a gate in a closed position.

[0081]FIG. 50 shows a presenter gate arrangement with a gate in an openposition.

[0082]FIG. 51 shows an alternative view of a presenter gate in an openposition.

[0083]FIG. 52 shows another view of a presenter gate in an openposition.

[0084]FIG. 53 shows a further view of a presenter gate in an openposition.

[0085]FIG. 54 shows a sheet stack adjacent to a presenter exit passage.

[0086]FIG. 55 shows an alternative sheet stack adjacent to a presenterexit passage.

[0087]FIG. 56 shows a view of an end of a flexible rail.

[0088]FIG. 57 shows an alternative view of the flexible rail.

[0089]FIG. 58 shows a sheet stack receiving a wavy impartation.

[0090]FIG. 59 shows an alternative sheet stack adjacent rail waffles.

[0091]FIG. 60 shows an alternative view of a gate and a gatearrangement.

[0092]FIG. 61 shows an angled view of a dual cam arm arrangement.

[0093]FIG. 62 shows an alternative view of the dual cam arm arrangement.

[0094]FIG. 63 shows a presenter frame shell.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION

[0095] Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1 there isshown therein an automated banking machine, generally indicated bynumeral 10, used in connection with an exemplary form of the presentinvention. The automated banking machine 10 can be an automated tellermachine (ATM). The automated banking machine 10 includes a customerinterface portion (e.g., fascia) and a document delivery portion.

[0096] The customer interface portion can be supported by an upperhousing 11 and/or a lower housing 20, such as by attachment to the upperhousing 11. The interface portion can include a display 12, such as aCRT screen or other output devices for providing outputs such as visualmessages and prompts to a customer or user. The interface can alsoinclude input devices, such as a keypad 13, function buttons 14, and acard reader 15. The customer fascia can also include a receipt outlet 16and may include other or different transaction function devices.

[0097] A document delivery portion of the machine 10 can be containedwithin a secure chest or lower housing 20. An opening 19 can be providedfor delivery of sheets, such as currency notes, or other items to a userof the machine.

[0098]FIG. 2 shows another form of an automated banking machinegenerally indicated 110. The automated banking machine can be an ATM.However, other exemplary forms of the invention may use other types ofautomated banking machines. ATM 110 includes a fascia 112 which servesas a user or customer interface. The fascia includes a card slot 114,keypad 116, function keys 118, display 120, receipt outlet slot 122,mini account statement outlet 124, document (e.g., cash) withdrawalopening 126, document deposit opening 128, and a writing shelf 129.

[0099] Card slot 114 can be used to input a card having encoded datathereon that is usable to identify the customer and/or the customer'saccount information. Card slot 114 provides entry to a card reader inputdevice for reading data encoded on the card. The machine may alsoinclude other input devices such as biometric readers that may beoperative to receive customer identifying inputs such as fingerprints,iris scans, retina scans, face topography data, voice data, or otherinputs that provide data that is usable to identify a user. An exampleof an ATM that uses biometric input devices and other types of inputdevices is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,023,688, the disclosure of which hasbeen fully incorporated herein by reference.

[0100] Keypad 116 includes a plurality of keys which may be actuated bya customer to provide inputs to the machine. Function keys 118 can beused to permit a customer to respond to screen prompts. The display 120may be a touch screen display which enables outputs through displays onthe screen and enables customers to provide inputs by placing a fingeradjacent to areas of the screen. Outlets 122, 124 may also be used todispense other items from ticket printing mechanisms, check printingmechanisms, and other devices that operate to apply indicia to media inthe course of performing transactions carried out with the machine.Various types of input and output devices may be included on userinterfaces. Generally, in the case of an automated banking machine atleast one input device is used to receive inputs that identify a userand/or an account. It should be understood that these features of thedescribed ATM user interface are exemplary and in other forms of theinvention the user interface may include different components and/orfeatures and/or arrangements. For example, a different arrangement mayhave the locations of the receipt outlet slot and the mini statementoutlet switched. Likewise, the card slot and the receipt outlet slot maybe switched.

[0101]FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 show respective front, top, and side views ofthe ATM 110 of FIG. 2.

[0102]FIG. 6 shows another form of an automated banking machinegenerally indicated 130. The automated banking machine has a customerinterface which includes a card reader slot 132, keypad 134, functionkeys 136, display 138, receipt outlet slot 140, mini statement outlet142, document (cash) withdrawal opening 144, document deposit opening146, and a bulk document deposit opening 148.

[0103]FIGS. 7 and 8 show respective top and side views of the automatedbanking machine 130 of FIG. 6.

[0104]FIG. 9 shows a further form of a portion of an automated bankingmachine generally indicated 150. FIG. 9 shows a customer interface 152similar to that of FIG. 2, including a card reader slot 154, keypad 156,receipt outlet slot 158, mini statement outlet 160, document (e.g.,cash) withdrawal opening 162, document deposit opening 164, and writingshelf (or supply tray) 166. With use of a touch screen in display area168, it may not be necessary to have function keys adjacent the screen.

[0105]FIG. 10 shows an additional form of a portion of an automatedbanking machine generally indicated 170. FIG. 10 shows a customerinterface including a card reader slot 172, keypad 174, touch screendisplay area 178, receipt outlet slot 180, mini statement outlet 182,document (cash) withdrawal opening 184, coin dispenser (or acceptor)opening 186, document deposit opening 188, and a bulk document depositopening 189.

[0106] Of course it should be understood that the type and locations ofparticular inlets and outlets of the fascias shown herein are exemplary,and that other arrangements and configurations may be used. That is, thedescribed ATM user interfaces are exemplary and in other exemplaryembodiments the user interface may include different components and/orfeatures and/or arrangements. For example, a different arrangement mayhave the locations of the receipt outlet slot and the mini statementoutlet switched. Likewise, a card slot and a receipt outlet slot may beswitched. An envelope storage holder may also be added thereto orsubstituted for therein in other arrangements.

[0107] Other exemplary embodiments of automated banking machines mayhave a different type of customer interface portion. For example, otherexemplary embodiments may not include a customer fascia on or adjacentto a chest portion. Such alternative machines may be operated asdocument delivery devices only. Such exemplary embodiments may be usedto deliver sheets or documents to a cashier, bank teller, or otherservice provider. Such alternative exemplary embodiments may alsoinclude a remotely positioned operator interface which can selectivelycause documents to be delivered from a disposed machine.

[0108]FIG. 11 shows an exemplary form of a secure chest portion 21 of anautomated banking machine (e.g., ATM). Any of the previously discussedautomated banking machines may include a secure chest portion in themanner shown in FIG. 11. The chest 21 encloses a secure area 22. Chest21 includes an upper wall 23 which can support the upper housing and thecustomer interface portion of an automated banking machine. For example,the upper wall 23 could support the upper housing 11 and the customerinterface portion of the automated banking machine 10 shown in FIG. 1.Chest 21 also has a service opening 24, and a door 25 which canselectively close the opening 24. When the banking machine is in use,the area 22 is closed by the door 25 and is secured and locked throughuse of a locking device 26. Any of a number of known devices may be usedas a locking device 26 to secure the door in a closed position.

[0109] The secure area 22 of the chest 21 can be used to house numerouscomponents of the banking machine. One of these components can be adispenser, generally indicated by numeral 27. The dispenser 27 caninclude removable cassettes 28, 29, 30, and 31. The cassettes can holdvaluable documents or other sheet materials or media, such as currency,travelers checks, coupons, scrip, vouchers, wagering slips, stamps,tickets, sheets, and phone cards. Thus, a dispenser may be a multimediadispenser. Each cassette can have a picker mechanism associatedtherewith which can selectively operate to remove items, such ascurrency notes, from the cassette. The construction of the exemplaryembodiment shown is such that two cassettes can be removably mounted ina dispenser frame or module 33. Although the dispenser 27 is shown ashaving two dispenser modules 33, a dispenser module may have more orfewer cassettes. Any number of dispenser modules may be included in abanking machine. Of course the number of dispenser modules may belimited by the physical size of the chest 21. Although an exemplaryembodiment has two cassettes and document pickers per dispenser module,other exemplary embodiments may have other numbers or arrangements ofdispenser modules, cassettes, and pickers.

[0110] Dispenser modules 33 can be secured together in stacked relation.A document presenter 35 can be attached to the top of a stack ofdispenser modules. A presenter can be used to present one or moredocuments to a user of the machine. Stacked dispenser modules are shownin U.S. Pat. No. 6,293,540, the disclosure of which is incorporatedherein by reference. Exemplary cassette and picker mechanism structuresare shown in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,099,423 and 5,141,127, the disclosures ofwhich are incorporated herein by reference. The stacked relation allowsdocuments from the cassettes to be picked from the cassettes anddelivered to the presenter 35. Documents may be selectively moved by thepresenter through an opening 32 to a user of the machine. Each of thecassettes 28, 29, 30, 31 inside the dispenser 27 can be independentlyremovable therefrom. Each cassette holding location in the dispenser 27can include a document picker mechanism and belt feed which can operateto deliver documents to the presenter 35. The dispenser of the exemplaryform can include a plurality of feed rolls, belts, and other movablemembers for selectively engaging and moving documents. Motors and otherdrive devices can operate to move these movable members. The drivedevices can operate in response to signals from a terminal controller,which can include one or more computers, which can control thedispensing of documents from the machine. An exemplary form of acontroller and a control system for an automated banking machine isshown in U.S. Patent No. 6,505,177, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference.

[0111] The dispenser 27, which can include the document presenter (orfeeder) 35 and the dispenser modules 33, can be releasably engaged to apair of slides 40. The slides can be mounted in supporting connectionwith the inside of the chest 21. This construction enables the slidesand thus the dispenser 27 to be extended and retracted through theopening 24 into and out of the chest 21. In the operative position ofthe banking machine the dispenser 27 is supported by the slides 40. Inan exemplary embodiment the dispenser 27 is releasably engaged with theslides and is removable therefrom when the dispenser is extended on theslides outside of the chest. The dispenser 27 can be disengageable fromthe slides by moving the dispenser upward relative to the slides.

[0112] When the banking machine is in use, the door 25 is closed. Theslides 40 can be retracted resulting in the document feeder 35 and thedispenser modules 33 being within the secure chest 21. The door 25 canbe secured in a closed position with the lock device 26. Documents orother items can be dispensed responsive to signals from the terminalcontroller and delivered by the presenter 35 to a user through theopening 32 which can extend through the door 25.

[0113] It may be easily understood that the multitude of cooperatingdrives, feeders, movable members, and devices used in a dispenser todeliver documents to a user could malfunction. Periodic replacement ormaintenance of certain components within the dispenser is also desirableto assure reliable operation. Thus, it may also be desirable in somecircumstances to change the number and/or type of cassettes and pickermechanisms to accommodate different denominations of currency, coupons,stamps, or other documents. It may also be desirable to replace orupgrade a dispenser. All of these activities can require procedures tobe performed on the machine dispenser. Alternatively, it may bedesirable to gain access to components in the chest of the bankingmachine which are rendered difficult to access due to the presence ofthe dispenser in the chest.

[0114] The slides 40 enable service personnel to extend the dispenser 27through the opening 24 once the door 25 has been opened. Extending thedispenser outward provides enhanced access to components of thedispenser for servicing. However, in some instances, access to certaincomponents of the dispenser or components in the chest cannot be easilyobtained even with the dispenser extended through the opening 24. Inthese cases, it would be desirable to disengage the dispenser 27 fromthe slides 40 and move the dispenser in order for work to be performed,or even to possibly replace the dispenser. In other cases, the dispensermay need to be disassembled, including the unstacking of dispensermodules. The dispenser may then need to be reassembled, including thestacking of dispenser modules.

[0115] An exemplary embodiment provides for the aligning, stacking, andsecuring together of dispenser modules, yet also permits the dispensermodules to be easily unstacked. In some exemplary arrangements thedispenser modules can be assembled in stacked relation and disassembledquickly therefrom without the use of tools. Dispenser modules can beassembled in a stacked relation either initially (e.g., new dispensermodule, new dispenser, etc.) or during a reassembling process. Asdescribed hereinafter in further detail, a releasable lockingarrangement can be used to position, align, and secure stacked dispensermodules together. A similar locking arrangement may also be used tosecure the uppermost dispenser module to the document presenter. FIG. 11shows a releasable locking arrangement, generally indicated by numeral48, for adjacent dispenser modules 33.

[0116]FIG. 12 shows dispenser modules 50, 51 secured together in astacked relation or arrangement. Each dispenser module 50, 51 of theexemplary embodiment of FIG. 12 includes at least one projection 52,latch 54, and tab 56. The dispenser modules can be identical or they candiffer, such as in dimensions (e.g., height). The modules of FIG. 12 maybe stacked by being snapped together. In other exemplary embodiments adesignated top dispenser module may be without a projection. Likewise,in further exemplary embodiments a designated lowermost dispenser modulemay be without a latch and/or a guide. For ease of description, only oneside wall 55 of a module need be described. The opposite side wall of amodule may be symmetrical with the described side wall.

[0117] Dispenser modules 50 can have a body, or a portion thereof, ofmaterial structurally sufficient to support the media contained therein.For example, a module body may comprise metal, plastic, polymer,fiberglass, resin, wood, or glass, or combinations thereof. A modulebody may comprise sheet metal. A module body may also be formed of aclear material that permits viewing therethrough.

[0118] A dispenser module 50 can include a cutout portion, opening,passage, or slot 58. In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 12 the slot 58has the shape of an inverted L. Alternatively, a slot may have othershapes.

[0119] A projection 52 can comprise a member, such as a plate, whichfunctions to extend from a module. A projection member 52 permits afirst module 51 to be removably latched or locked to an adjacent module50 when the modules are in properly stacked alignment. A projectionmember 52 can be attached to a module or be of one piece with themodule. Attaching or fastening may include known techniques, such aswelding, screwing, bolting, use of nuts, etc.

[0120] As shown in more detail in FIGS. 15 and 16, a projection canproject or extend from a module relatively flush with the module sidewall. The projection may be biased toward remaining flush with themodule side wall. Alternatively, a projection may extend outward awayfrom a module side wall at a predetermined angle. For example, aprojection may have an outwardly bias. In such case, a tab can act tohold, pull, or retain a projection member adjacent a side wall. Aprojection member may also be tapered at the top thereof to assist inslidingly engaging an adjacent module.

[0121] The projection member 52 includes an inwardly projecting pin 60.The projecting pin 60 can comprise a dowel pin or bolt or shaft. The pin60 is of a length permitting its extension through a side wall 55 of anadjacent module. The pin 60 can be flanged at one or both ends. In anexemplary embodiment the pin has a flanged end 62 in fixed connectionwith the projection plate member 52. Alternatively the pin 60 may befreely movable relative to the projection plate member 52. The pin 60 isadapted to extend both vertically and horizontally in the slot 58 of amodule 50, 51. An inner flanged end 64 of the pin 60 is adapted tolocking engage the side wall of an adjacent module.

[0122] A latch or retainer or arm 54 can be cutout from a module body50, 51. A guide or tab 56 can also be cutout from a module body.Alternatively, a latch and/or a guide can be separately fastened to amodule body. Both latch 54 and guide 56 can be biasing members. Forexample, both a latch arm 54 and a tab 56 can be springs (e.g., latchspring and tab spring). Both a latch 54 and a guide 56 can have anunbiased position, such as the position shown in the lower module 50 ofFIG. 12. As discussed in more detail herein, a latch 54 can be used tolatch or lock a dispenser module projection member 52 in stackedposition, and thus lock the adjacent modules in stack position. A tab 56can be used to guide or align a dispenser module projection member, andthus the modules, during stacking securement. A tab 56 can also be usedto retain a projection 52 from (outward) movement away from its sidewall.

[0123] An exemplary operation of assembling secured stacked dispensermodules will now be described. In the exemplary operation the engagementand movement of securing components can (symmetrically) simultaneouslyoccur on each side of the modules.

[0124] A first dispenser module 51 can be placed relatively onto asecond dispenser module 50, as shown in FIG. 13. In this step a latcharm 54 of the first dispenser module 51 is biased or compressed backinto the side wall 55 of the first dispenser module 51. This biasedposition may be achieved by the first module being lowered onto thesecond module at the position shown. Alternatively, the first module 51may be placed relatively onto the second module 50 :upstream of theshown position (i.e., the projection 52 being further away from the tab56) and then slid toward the shown position. The initial startingposition may also vary based on how far a projection 52 is angled awayfrom its side wall. For example, a projection 52 attached flush with itsside wall may have to start in a position (further upstream) so that theprojection 52 avoids abutting engagement with an outwardly biased latcharm 54. That is, a module may have to be lowered (or raised) at alocation that permits its lowering, i.e., the projection 52 is clear ofcontact with a latch arm 54. Alternatively, a module may be placedrelatively onto another module without any lowering, e.g., the modulescan be horizontally slid relative to each other.

[0125] In a next step, as shown in FIG. 14, the first module 51 can beslid further toward an aligned stacked relation with the second module50. In this position the projections 52 of the second dispenser module50 have respectively entered between the tabs 56 and the side walls 55of the first module 51. Similarly, the pins 60 have entered the slots58. The tab 56 can be used to guide, align, or biasingly retain aprojection 52 during the secured stacking operation. For example, thetabs 56 can be used to bias the projections 52 toward a flusharrangement with the side walls 55. Also, other exemplary arrangementsmay have arrangements in which the pins enter the slots before or afterthe projections enter behind the tabs.

[0126] In a final step, as shown in FIG. 12, the first module 51 is slidfurther into aligned stacked relation with the second module 50. In thisposition the projections 52 of the second dispenser module 50 remainbehind the tabs 56 of the first module 51. Furthermore, the pins 60 haveslid (horizontally) in the slots 58 and their inner flanged ends 64 arein retaining engagement with the side walls of the first module 51.Additionally, the projections 52 have slid past the latch arms 54. Thus,the latch arms 54 (which are no longer compressed) have again becomeoutwardly biased. That is, the latch arms 54 have snapped outwardly toprevent the projections 52 from disengaging movement in the directiontoward the latch arms. Thus, the latch arms prevent the movement of thepins from the slots 58. It follows that the pin/slot arrangements andthe latch/projection arrangements securely lock the adjacent modules 50,51 in aligned and stacked relation.

[0127] In an exemplary form of module stacking, a second dispensermodule is placed on and locked to a first dispenser module to create adispenser module stack portion. Thereafter, a third dispenser module isplaced on and locked to the already created dispenser module stackportion. The process can be repeated until the desired secured andaligned module stack is complete.

[0128] An exemplary operation of disassembling secured stacked dispensermodules will now be described. After the latch arms 54 are biasedinwardly (i.e., compressed) then the projections 52 can again be movedoutside of or into a position overlapping the compressed latch arms 54.The latch arms may be compressed by hand. In other exemplary embodimentsuse of a tool may be more convenient or necessary to compress the latcharms. The dispenser modules can then be moved (e.g., horizontally)relative to each other until the pins 60 are aligned in a position for(e.g., vertical) removal from the slot 58 (e.g., the position shown inFIG. 14). Thereafter, the dispenser modules can be moved (e.g.,vertically) relative to (away from) each other to disengage the modules.The pins can be removed by passing vertically through a lower portion ofthe slot, which portion extends (horizontally) inwardly.

[0129] Alternatively, stack modules may be disassembled by reversing thepreviously discussed assembly steps. For example, the latch 54 can becompressed far enough to permit the plate 52 (and the pin 60 therewith)to slide past.

[0130]FIG. 15 shows a partial end view of adjacent side walls 70, 72 ofconnected dispenser modules. A relationship of a projection member 74,an inner flanged pin end 76, a tab 78, and adjacent side walls 70, 72 isalso shown.

[0131]FIG. 16 shows an alternative partial end view of side walls 80, 82of connected dispenser modules. A projection plate 84 is shown fastenedto a side wall 80 via a screw 86. The projection plate 84 is also shownhaving a tapered end 88 and an extended pin 89.

[0132]FIG. 17 shows a portion of a dispenser module 90 including aplurality of releasable locking arrangements. The dispenser module 90includes side walls, each having plural projections 92, latch arms 94,slots 96, tabs 98, and pins 99.

[0133]FIG. 18 shows a portion of removably connected alternativedispenser modules 100, 102. The modules are similar to those of FIG. 12,except tabs are absent and (correspondingly) the projections 104, 106are of smaller size. It should be understood that the sizes andlocations of the projections, latches, tabs, pins, and slots may varyfor different modules. For example, a stack of modules may havevertically alternating (relatively) small and large sized projections.That is, the lowermost module may have small sized projections and thenext level module may have large sized projections. The other modulestructure (e.g., latches, slots, etc.) may also be sized to correspondto the sized projections of the adjacent modules.

[0134]FIGS. 19 and 20 show additional exemplary embodiments of adispenser module portion 190. The modules of FIG. 19 may be stacked bybeing snapped together. Each of FIGS. 19 and 20 include a shaped tab 192and at least one side wall pin 194. The tab 192 can be shaped (e.g.,bent, corrugated, or curved) to provide additional engaging or biasingforce, e.g., spring force. The pin 194, as shown more fully in FIG. 20,can be used to provide alignment of the module with the dispenser. Thatis, the pin 194 may act as a guide pin to engage a corresponding guideslot (or groove or rail) of the dispenser into which the module isinserted. The pin 194 may also be used during the handling and liftingof the module. That is, the pin may be used for guidance or engagementin positioning of the module during transport. FIG. 19 also shows thatlatch arms 196 need only be adjacent to one end of a module. The moduleend without latch arms can still have a slot 198, such as an invertedL-shaped slot. A dispenser module 190 can also include side walls 191,projection member 193, and a projection member pin 195.

[0135] Furthermore, the locking arrangements of all the modules in astack may vary so that the stack may only be assembled one way. That is,the order of the modules in a stack can be determined by theirpredetermined locking arrangements. Thus, service personnel can beprevented from incorrectly stacking modules.

[0136] An exemplary embodiment provides for the capability of usingremovably lockable multimedia dispenser modules to facilitate theservicing of automated banking machine dispenser mechanisms. Theexemplary arrangement can permit easier, faster, and less expensiveaccess to dispenser mechanism components to facilitate repairs and/orreplacement thereof by service personnel. The exemplary arrangement canalso provide a method of separating and removing stacked modules of adispenser assembly to facilitate repair or replacement. An exemplarymethod also facilitates aligning and releasably locking together themodules of a dispenser mechanism in an automated banking machine, suchas an ATM.

[0137] While the exemplary embodiments described herein includeparticular structures to achieve the desirable results, those havingskill in the art may devise numerous other exemplary embodiments withother structures which employ the same inventive principles describedherein and which are encompassed by the subject matter as claimed. Forexample and without limitation, other embodiments may include othertypes and shapes of modules, projections, pins, latches, slots, tabs,fasteners, material, or other structures. Further, the structuresdescribed herein are not intended to limit the scope of the presentapplication to the particular structures described herein.

[0138] As previously discussed, a media cassette or canister can beremovably mounted in an automated banking machine (e.g., ATM) dispensermodule. FIG. 21 shows an exemplary form of a media (e.g., currency note)cassette. The cassette 200 includes at least one indicator buttoncontact area 202 comprising a plurality of indicator buttons. Forexample, the button area may include a media low indicator button 204.The use and operation of information indication buttons for a cassetteis described in detail in the disclosure of U.S. Pat. No. 4,871,085,which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0139] The cassette also includes a door 208. The door has a flexible orbendable portion. In an exemplary form of the invention, the doorincludes a tambour door section 210. The tambour section 210 cancomprise a flexible corrugated or shutter-like arrangement having anumber of thick parallel strips integrally attached together by thinnerparallel links or webs. The tambour section can comprise an integralone-piece construction having alternating strips and links, with thestrips and links parallel to each other. The strips can be rigid,whereas the links can be pliable. Hence, the door can bend at thethinner links. Tambour section materials can include plastic, metal,polymers, and/or vinyl, such as polyvinylchloride (“PVC”). However, inalternative exemplary embodiments other types of doors, flexible doorsections (e.g., smooth non-tambour), and door materials (e.g., shapememory alloy, non-PVC polymers, plastic embedded with metal forstrength, etc.) may be used.

[0140] The tambour door 210 can be arranged in the cassette housing foropening in a recessing or retracting manner. For example, the tambourdoor shown in FIG. 21 can be opened by moving in a first direction(vertically) downwardly and then curving into another direction(horizontally) underneath the cassette. The flexible door 210 may beable to move in two substantially perpendicular directions. The cassettehousing can have a guide or track in which the tambour door 210 can rideduring its opening and closing. For example, the sides of the door maybe set in cassette housing supports or grooves which enable the door toslide relative to the cassette housing.

[0141] Opening of the door can permit a picker mechanism to be properlypositioned to access and pick media (e.g., currency bills) from thecassette. As explained in more detail hereinafter, a cassette tambourdoor of an exemplary embodiment may be automatically opened duringinsertion of the cassette into its operating position in a dispensermodule. It should be understood that the particular tambour doordiscussed herein is exemplary and that other sized and shaped tambourdoors corresponding to other sized and shaped cassettes may also beused. However, the tambour doors may function in a similar manner duringopening and closing.

[0142]FIG. 22 shows a view of the tambour door section 210 in a closedposition. A bottom portion 212 of the cassette housing frame is alsoshown in FIG. 22. The cassette housing includes a slot (or groove) 214therein. The slot extends in a direction away from the closed tambourdoor. As explained in more detail hereinafter, the slot is operative foruse in opening the tambour door.

[0143] As shown in FIG. 22, the tambour door 210 includes an opening (orhole or groove) 216. The opening's face can be substantially parallel tothe face of the closed tambour door and substantially perpendicular tothe slot direction. The door 210 further includes a lip or flange 218extending adjacent to (e.g., beneath) the opening. The lip's face canalso be substantially parallel to the face of the closed tambour doorand substantially perpendicular to the slot direction. A portion of thedoor lip 218 is operative to be moved in the slot 214.

[0144] The opening 216 is operative to receive a portion of a push pin220. Additional views of the exemplary pin 220 are shown in FIGS. 23 and24. The pin may be fixed, such as fastened (e.g., bolted) into adispenser module. For example the pin may have screw holes or bolt holes226. The pin 220 functions to relatively push the tambour door 210 to anopen position.

[0145] The pin 220 can include a head portion 222 and a body portion224. The pin 220 is operative to gear with a tambour door section tocause relative movement of the tambour door. The pin head 222 isoperative to key or protrude into the opening 216 so that the pin body224 can engage (or abut) the door lip 218. The pin head-to-openingmating relationship can respectively comprise a male to female type ofrelationship. The pin head-to-opening relationship assists in preventingslippage of the pin body relative to the lip. It should be understoodthat the pin head can pass through the opening 216 with or withoutpassing entirely through the door. For example, a door can have anindented closed member with one side open (i.e., an opening). The pinhead 222 can pass through the open side and be received in the closedmember. The closed member can be box-like with only one open side (e.g.,like a cave).

[0146] The lip 218 may have flanges to guide and/or partially surroundthe pin body 224. For example, the lip may have tapered side flanges 219to facilitate guidance of the pin body 224. The pin may have arelatively smooth and wavy contour. Such contour may be beneficialduring contact with ridges of a tambour door.

[0147] The tambour section 210 of the door 208 can also have an openchannel area leading to the opening and lip area. A channel 228 enablesthe pin to extend through the tambour section of the door to reach theopening and lip while the door is still in a fully closed position. Inan exemplary arrangement, the channel 228 can be sized to receive thepin body 224 therein. For example, when the door is in a fully openposition, the pin head 222 can extend through the door opening 216 andthe pin body 224 can be entirely located in the channel 228. The channel228 can have at least one taper to facilitate guidance of the pin intothe channel and the door opening. For example, a taper may be on a sidewall of the channel. The pin head can also include one or more taperedsurfaces to assist in guiding the pin head into the channel and the dooropening. FIG. 21 also shows a tapered channel 228, opening 216, and lip218.

[0148] During an exemplary door opening operation, as the cassette 200is inserted into a dispenser module the pin head 222 extends into thedoor opening 216 and the pin body 224 engages the door lip 218. Withfurther insertion of the cassette, the pin-to-lip engagement preventsthe door from proceeding in the insertion direction along with thecassette. Therefore, further movement of the cassette into the dispensermodule results in the door 210 being further opened. The degree orpercentage of a door actually opened can be determined based on theinsertion distance of the cassette in the dispenser module. Magnitude ofdoor openness can be directly proportional to cassette insertiondistance.

[0149] The pin 220 acts relative to the cassette to push against the lip218 to open the cassette door. The cassette and pin relationship can bepredetermined such that when the cassette is fully inserted the door isfully open. The cassette slot 214 can also be of a predetermined lengththat permits the door to be fully opened.

[0150] With the pin head 222 located through the door opening 216 andthe pin body 224 received in the channel 228, the arrangement providesfor the pin 220 and tambour door 210 to be in a mating or interlockingrelationship. The generated lock can be prevented from being removed(opened) until the door is again in a closed position. Removal of thecassette from the dispenser module can cause the door to automaticallyreturn to its closed position. As the cassette is being extracted, thepin body 224 abuts against at least one tambour strip to hold the doorstationary while the cassette is moved. An abutted tambour strip can bethat strip which is closest to the channel 228 but opposite to the doorlip 218. In an alternative arrangement this closest tambour strip canhave a lip to facilitate area engagement with the pin body.

[0151]FIG. 25 shows a first step in a door opening process. FIG. 25 is across sectional view of the cassette 200 taken through the door channel228. The door is in a closed position enabling the opening to thechannel 228 exposed to receive the pin head 222. The cassette 200 hasbeen moved toward the pin 220 so that the pin head 222 has entered thedoor channel 228. That is, the pin head is located beneath a tamboursection, prior to entry into the door opening. The cassette bottomportion 212, which includes the previously discussed slot 214, is alsoshown.

[0152]FIG. 26 shows a second step in the door opening process. FIG. 26,like FIG. 25, is also a cross sectional view taken through the doorchannel. The cassette 200 has been further moved toward the pin 220,which in this example is stationary. The pin head 222 extends into thedoor opening 216. The pin body 224 begins to abut the door lip 218.However, in FIG. 26 the door 210 is still in a closed position.

[0153]FIG. 27 shows a third step in the door opening process. Thecassette 200 has been fully inserted. The pin 220 has (relatively)pushed the door lip 218 adjacent to the distant end of the slot 214. Thetambour door 210 is in a fully open position. The pin head 222 remainsextended through the door opening 216, and the pin body 224 fits in thechannel 228.

[0154]FIG. 28 shows a partial view of the cassette bottom 212 taken withthe door lip 218 positioned near the entrance to the slot 214. That is,the tambour door section 210 is in a partly opened position. The taperedchannel 228 and a substantially flat (non-tambour) portion 209 of thedoor 208 are also shown. The flat portion 209 can provide a secure coverfor the slot 214 when the door is closed. The door lip 218 may beintegrally formed with the flat portion 209. A portion of the door lip218 may extend from the flat portion 209 a distance substantially equalto the thickness of cassette bottom 212 (and the slot 214). Thus, thedoor lip 218 can be arranged so that it does not extend past the bottom212 of the cassette housing.

[0155]FIG. 29 shows a partial view of the cassette bottom 212 taken withthe door lip 218 at the end of the slot 214. That is, the tambour door210 is in a fully opened position. A tapered pin head 222 (in brokenlines) and a pin body 224 are also shown. A part of thefurthest-inserted portion of the tambour door 210 can be viewed throughthe slot 214, whereas the cassette bottom 212 hides the remainder of thefurthest inserted portion.

[0156] The relationship of the door and pin also includes a securityfeature. If the tambour door 210 has been prematurely moved (opened) apredetermined distance, such as due to tampering, then the pin 220 willnot be able to enter the door channel 228. A door that has been slightly(or greatly) opened causes a tambour portion thereof to curve downwardlywhich results in blocked entry of the pin head 222 into the channel 228.That is, the opening to the channel is no longer available to the pinhead because one or more tambour door strips have been moved between thechannel and the pin head to prevent entry of the pin head into thechannel. Nor can the pin head 222 enter the door opening 216. Therefore,the pin 220 would not be able to enter the channel 228, engage the lip218, and open the door 210.

[0157] Tampering (or mishandling, etc.) can cause the tambour door 210to become and remain opened. Even a slightly opened door can cause thedoor channel 228 to become misaligned with the pin 220, and prevent thecassette from being fully inserted into a dispenser module. That is, ifthe door is out of alignment (i.e., partly open) prior to insertion,then the pin body 224 will not be able to properly engage the lip 218,and the door cannot be opened by the pin. Rather, the pin head 222 wouldabut against the exterior of a tambour door section (e.g., at the curvedportion). Because a slightly opened tambour door is angularly moved, theopening to the channel 228 would not be properly angularly positioned toreceive entry of the pin head 222. The pin head would push against thedoor exterior (e.g., at a substantially flat or perpendicular angle) andnot be able to enter the channel 228. The relative movement of the pin220 would be stopped by at least one tambour section strip of the door.For example, if the door of FIG. 22 was already partly open, then thepin head 222 would abut a strip section of the door 210 at a locationabove the channel 228. The partly opened door could not be opened viathe pin 220.

[0158] In an exemplary arrangement, as a result of the door being partlyopen and thus misaligned with the pin 220, the cassette cannot be fullyinserted into a dispenser module. Thus, the door-to-pin relationship canact as a tamper indicator. The indicator inherently prevents usage of apotentially compromised cassette in a dispenser. A compromised cassettemay have an inaccurate currency count. The exemplary arrangementprevents a potentially compromised cassette from being inserted into adispenser module. The insertion relationship between the cassette andthe dispenser module can function as an indicator of possible cassettetampering. For example, the unsuccessful insertion of a cassette intothe dispenser module is an indication that the cassette may have beencompromised. A problem cassette can be determined responsive to the lackof expected insertion movement of the cassette relative to thedispenser. The problem cassette can be identified for closer inspection,and if necessary a currency recount or other function can be carriedout.

[0159] In an exemplary arrangement a cassette can also have a tamperindicator device that operates if an opened cassette door has beenreturned to the closed door position. The tamper indicator device ormechanism can be built into the cassette. As previously discussed, theexemplary cassette can functionally indicate a potential tampering whenits door has been at least partly left open. This is due to misalignmentduring insertion of the cassette into a dispenser. However, a tamperedwith cassette may have its opened door clandestinely returned to itsclosed position. The door returned to its closed position may permitalignment of the cassette with the dispenser. The tamper indicatordevice can be used to reveal this closed-door tampering scenario.

[0160] The tamper indicator device can indicate a potential tamperingsituation by indicating when the door has been returned from an openposition to the closed position. An indicator display arrangement caninclude indicia, such as symbols, numbers, and/or colors. Otherindicator display arrangements can also be used, such as the currentposition (e.g., vertical, horizontal, angular, exterior/interior) of anelement or a sole symbol or number. An indicator element may be in theform of a previously discussed indication button for a cassette. Anoutward extending button can indicate a cassette condition differentthan when the button is not extended.

[0161] An exemplary indicator arrangement comprises two differentindicia colors arranged adjacent to each other on a movable display. Thecolored indicia may be initially displayed as a first color (e.g.,green) to represent a secure door (e.g., no indication of tampering),and later displayed (if necessary) as a second color (e.g., red ororange) to represent an indication of potential tampering. The indiciadisplay can be movable parallel or lateral to a face of the cassette.Alternatively, an indicia display may be arranged for rotatablemovement. When the display is moved, the color changes. The movableindicia display can be located at an end of the cassette, such as theend opposite the door. The colored indicia can be visible to servicepersonnel through a clear plastic window. Only one color at a time maybe visible through the window.

[0162] As a result of the door being closed during tampering, theindicia display moves to cause the window to display orange instead ofgreen. That is, the indicia display is moved relative to the window sothat the orange has replaced the green showing in the window. A showingof orange is a visual indication to the service person that the cassettehas been potentially compromised. In the exemplary arrangement, thetamper indicator device is active when the cassette is in a lockedcondition. The color can be reset to green when (or automatically as)the cassette is unlocked, such as by use of a key or an inputted code orcombination.

[0163] A lever, latch, cam, and/or spring-loaded mechanism can be usedto move the display to visually change the indicia color when thecassette door has been opened then closed. In an exemplary arrangement,the opening of the door enables an engagement portion of the cassettedoor to pass by a spring lever. The lever is connected to the indicatordisplay via linkage. The lever is movable (e.g., tiltable) one-way toenable the engagement portion to pass by the lever in a door openingdirection. However, return movement of the door in a door closingdirection causes the lever to be engaged and tripped, resulting inmovement of the indicia display. In the exemplary arrangement, theengagement portion can trip the lever just prior to the door being fullyclosed. The indicia display can be spring-loaded so that when the doorapproaches its closed position the lever is tripped causing the springto release and move the indicia display in a color changing direction.The tripped lever results in the displayed color being visually changed.It should be understood that other (mechanical and/or electrical)arrangements can be used to move the display responsive to closing ofthe door. That is, other arrangements for operating or moving an indiciaor indicator display are within the scope of the invention. For example,another arrangement can comprise a spring loaded rotatable cam insteadof a lever.

[0164] The exemplary cassette is also able to provide another level ofsecurity. For example, a cassette door that has been opened and thenreturned to its closed position (during tampering) can be kept locked inits closed position. The door can remain locked even if the cassette(while indicating orange) is inadvertently attempted to be inserted intoa dispenser. The locked door prevents full insertion of the cassetteinto the dispenser. Again, unsuccessful insertion of the cassette is afunctional indication (or signal or notice) to the service person of amalfunction or impropriety (e.g., potentially compromised) with thecassette. The cassette door can be unlocked when (or automatically as)the cassette is unlocked.

[0165] The novel ability to prevent insertion of a potentiallycompromised cassette into a dispenser can result in a foolproofarrangement. In review, the exemplary arrangement enables a cassette tobe prevented from insertion into a dispenser if its door is at leastpartly open. If the cassette's door was opened and then closed, avisible indication of such action is provided. Even if the cassettehandler fails to notice the visible indicator, the cassette still cannotbe inserted into the dispenser because the closed door is kept locked.Thus, whether the cassette door is left open or closed after tampering,the exemplary arrangement can prevent the insertion of a compromisedcassette into a dispenser. The exemplary arrangement also provides anindication, whether functional and/or visible, that a cassette has beenpotentially compromised.

[0166] The exemplary security arrangement also enables the door of a(non-tampered) cassette to be automatically closed and locked during itsremoval from the dispenser. During cassette removal the pin 220 returnsthe door 210 to its closed position. With the cassette door having beenopened (during insertion) and then closed (during removal), the doorremains in a locked condition. The service person responsible fortransporting the cassette can be without the ability (e.g., cassettekey) to open the cassette. Thus, the cassette can remain securely lockedduring its handling and transport.

[0167] A dispenser module 229 may include therewith a pickerarrangement. A picker arrangement can include a picker shaft driven by apicker drive motor. A stacked module arrangement may include each modulehaving at least one picker mechanism. A picker mechanism can be properlypositioned to access and pick media (e.g., currency sheets) from acassette. The function and operation of a picker arrangement having apicker roller, stripper roller, and take-away roller enable the pickingof one sheet at a time from a stack of sheets in a cassette.

[0168] The servicing of a currency cassette can include replenishing thecassette with cash before reinserting it into a dispenser module of anautomated banking machine. In an exemplary servicing method, a cassetteis reloaded with a stack of currency notes. The tambour door is of thecassette is closed. The lid of the cassette is closed and locked. Thelid can be locked by using a key to move a latch to a lid lockingposition. The reloaded cassette is transported to a dispenser of an ATM.

[0169] As previously discussed with regard to FIGS. 25-27, the cassette200 is moved in an insertion direction into a dispenser module. Thecassette 200 is moved toward a push pin 220 of the dispenser module. Thecassette 200 is aligned with the dispenser module so that movement ofthe cassette toward the pin 220 causes the pin head 222 to enter achannel 228 in the cassette door 210. As the cassette 200 is furthermoved toward the stationary pin 220, the channel 228 guides an opening216 in the cassette door 210 toward alignment with the pinhead 222. Thechannel 228 can be tapered to facilitate both guidance of the pin head222 therein and guidance of the pin head 222 toward the door opening216. The pin head 222 can be correspondingly tapered to furtherfacilitate its guidance. The pin head 222 enters and extends through thedoor opening 216. The movement of the cassette causes the pin body 224to abut the door lip 218. At this stage of cassette insertion, thecassette door 210 is still in a fully closed position.

[0170] As the cassette 200 continues its movement toward the stationarypin 220, the stationary pin body 224 exerts a pushing force against thedoor lip 218 of the moving cassette. The pushing force causes the doorlip 218 to move along the slot 214 of the cassette housing in a dooropening direction. The door lip 218 is integral with the cassette door210. Thus, movement of the door lip 218 causes movement of the door.Further insertion of the cassette 200 into the dispenser causes the door210 to become further opened. The cassette is moved in the insertiondirection until it is fully inserted. When the cassette is fullyinserted the tambour door 210 is filly open.

[0171] The fully inserted position of the cassette 200 precludes furthermovement of the cassette in the insertion direction. The push pin 220has (relatively) pushed the door lip 218 adjacent to the distant end ofthe slot 214. The fully inserted cassette is operationally positionedadjacent to a picker mechanism of the dispenser module. A picker rollerof the picker mechanism can be operated to remove a note from the stackof currency notes in the cassette 200.

[0172] An exemplary method of servicing a currency cassette (or an ATM)can include the following steps. Inserting a stack of currency notesinto a currency cassette. Closing (or ensuring the closing of) thetambour door of the cassette. Closing the lid of the cassette. Lockingthe lid with a key operated lock. Wherein the steps of loading thecurrency into the cassette, closing the cassette door, closing thecassette lid, and locking the lid can be carried out in a service centerfacility remotely located from the ATM. Transporting the cassette to adispenser module of an ATM. Aligning the cassette with acassette-receiving opening of the dispenser module. Inserting thecassette partly into the dispenser opening. Moving (inserting) thecassette toward a stationary push pin of the dispenser module. Furthermoving the cassette in the insertion direction to cause the push pinhead to enter a tapered channel in a tambour door of the cassette.Further inserting the cassette to cause the tapered channel to engageand move along the pin head to align an opening in the cassette doorwith the pin head. Further inserting the cassette to cause the pin headto enter and extend through the door opening. Further inserting thecassette to cause a lip integral with the tambour door to engage thestationary pin body. Further inserting the cassette while the door lipremains immovably engaged against the stationary pin body. Wherein acassette housing slot moves relative to the door lip positioned therein,causing the door to move in a door-opening direction relative to thecassette. Further inserting the cassette until it is fully inserted intothe dispenser. Wherein when the cassette is fully inserted, the cassettedoor is fully open. The pin head continues to extend through the dooropening of a fully opened cassette door, and the pin body remains in thechannel. Furthermore, when the cassette is fully inserted it isoperationally positioned adjacent to a picker mechanism of the dispensermodule. Wherein a picker roller of the picker mechanism is operative toremove a note from the stack of currency notes in the cassette.

[0173] The service method steps can also include removing a cassettefrom a dispenser module of an ATM. The cassette removing steps can be areversal of the cassette inserting steps. The removing steps can occurbefore or after the previously discussed servicing steps of inserting acassette into a dispenser module. Removal of a cassette from a dispensermodule can include the following steps. Partly removing a currencycassette in a withdrawal direction from a dispenser module opening,wherein the door lip is moved away from the stationary pin body, andwherein the pin body engages a tambour door strip. Further removing thecassette while the tambour door via the tambour strip remains immovablyengaged against the stationary pin body, wherein the cassette housingslot moves relative to the door lip positioned therein. Further removingthe cassette to cause the pin body to disengage from the tambour doorstrip. Further removing the cassette to cause the pin head to exit thedoor opening. Further removing the cassette to cause the pin head toexit the channel, wherein positional relation of the pin separated fromthe tambour door causes the door to be in a closed position. Furtherremoving the cassette until it is filly withdrawn from the dispenser.

[0174] As previously discussed, a picker arrangement in a dispensermodule can include a picker roller, stripper roller, and a take-awayroller. FIG. 30 shows an exemplary embodiment including a removablepicker shaft 230 having picker rollers 232, 234, 236 thereon. Thegripper 240 on the center picker roller 234 is circumferentially offsetfrom the respective grippers 238, 242 of the outer picker rollers 232,236. Thus, the center picker roller 234 can operate to first pick a notefrom a media (e.g., currency) cassette. Each picker arrangement can beassociated with a corresponding media cassette.

[0175]FIG. 30 also shows a key and key hole relationship area 244. Thepicker shaft 230 can have a key hole (or cutout or groove or slot) at afirst (drive) end 231 thereof. The key hole can be sized and shaped toreceive a correspondingly sized and shaped key (e.g., projection) of adrive pin 250. For example, both the key hole and the key may havemating V-shapes. That is, the picker shaft's V-shaped key hole canreceive the drive pin's V-shaped key. The mating permits the drive pinto drive (i.e., rotate) the picker shaft via engagement of at least thekey and key hole. Alternatively, a drive arrangement may include thedrive pin having the key slot while the picker shaft has the mating key.A key may be an outwardly extending projection, e.g., a projectionextending radially and axially from an outer surface.

[0176]FIGS. 31-38 show examples of picker shaft and drive pin matingarrangements. FIGS. 31, 32, and 34 show a drive pin 252 having a key248. FIGS. 33 and 34 show a picker shaft 254 having a key hole 246. The(female) key hole 246 is operative to receive the (male) key 248, asshown in FIG. 34. The drive pin 252 is able to enter the picker shaft254 with the key 248 mating with the key hole 246.

[0177]FIG. 35 shows another mating engagement of a picker shaft 256 anddrive pin 258. The picker shaft and drive pin have substantially thesame outer diameter. A V-shaped key 260 projects from the remainder ofthe drive pin body 262. The picker shaft includes a V-shaped cut outslot 264.

[0178]FIGS. 36, 37, and 38 show another mating relationship of a pickershaft and drive pin. The relationship shows a picker shaft 266 having acenter axial key 268, and a drive pin 270 having an axial channel keyhole 272. The picker shaft is able to engage with the drive pin, withthe shaft key 268 mating in the pin key hole 272. The picker shaft 266also includes a key hole 276 adjacent its outer surface (e.g.,circumference), and the drive pin 270 includes a projecting key 274adjacent its outer surface. The key hole 276 is operative to receive theprojecting key 274. Thus, the picker shaft 266 is matingly engaged withthe drive pin 270 in at least two locations.

[0179] Of course it should be understood that further exemplaryembodiments of key and key hole engagement relationships involving adrive pin and picker shaft may be used. For example, the male/femalemating arrangements of the drive pin and picker shaft may be reversed inany of FIGS. 31-38. Additionally, a key may be an inwardly extendingprojection, e.g., extending radially and axially from an innercircumferential surface.

[0180] Referring again to FIG. 30, the picker shaft 230 also has asecond (free) end 233 (i.e., the end opposite the drive end 231). Thepicker shaft can have a constant diameter or a varying diameter. Forexample, the free end may include a smaller diameter guide pin, such asa pin similar to center axial key 268. The free end can be supported inan opening (or slot or hole) in a side wall 280 of the dispenser module229. The opening may extend to a closed wall portion (e.g., the wallside disposed from the guide pin). For example, the free end can be heldor supported in a wall hole without passing through the closed wall.Alternatively, the wall can have a hole passing entirely therethrough sothat a portion of the free end extends out of the side wall.

[0181]FIG. 30 shows a module side wall 280 having a tab 282. The tab canbe cutout from the dispenser module side wall 280. The tab can comprisea laser cut metal wall tab. Thus, the tab can be integral with or ofone-piece construction with the metal wall of the dispenser.Alternatively, the tab can be separately fastened or connected to thedispenser module body. The tab can be a springy or resilient or biasingmember, such as a spring loaded tab. The tab 282 can have an opening orhole 284. As previously discussed, the free end portion 233 of the shaft230 can be held or supported in the tab hole 284. The tab hole 284enables the shaft end 233 to be retained from movement in a mannerfurther described hereinafter. In exemplary arrangements, the tab 282can comprise a previously discussed latch 54 or tab 56.

[0182] The resiliency of the tab 282 is operative to retain (or trap)the picker shaft 230 in mating connection with the drive pin 250 (at thekey). That is, the tab 282 can be positioned to hold the picker shaft inengagement with the drive pin by applying a continuous force pushingagainst the picker shaft in a direction toward the drive pin.Alternatively, the tab 282 can be positioned to hold the picker shaft inengagement with the drive pin while the tab is in an unbiased or relaxedstate. The tab can become active when necessary to retain the shaft.Also, the shaft may or may not have a certain amount of axially playrelative to the drive pin. Nevertheless, any attempt by the shaft toaxial move (with or without play) out of mating engagement with thedrive pin results in a retaining force being applied against the pickershaft by the tab. The tab prevents disengagement of the picker shaftfrom the drive pin.

[0183] The tab 282, in different exemplary arrangements, can havedifferent resting positions (unbiased normal state) relative to thedispenser wall 280. For example, a tab can be neutrally biased in aposition extending (flared) inward from the dispenser wall 280. Thus,pushing the tab outwardly in a direction toward the dispenser wall 280places the tab in a biased state, and the tab tries to return (in aninwardly direction) to its unbiased state. Another arrangement can havethe tab in its unbiased state when it is substantially parallel with thedispenser wall. A further arrangement can have the unbiased tabextending (flared) outwardly from the dispenser wall.

[0184] The shaft free end 233 can force the free end of the tab 282 inan outward direction (away from the drive pin) during manual insertionof the picker shaft 230 into operative engagement with the drive pin250. The outwardly pushed resilient tab tries to return (inward) to itsresting position. That is, the outwardly biased tab attempts to retractto its unbiased (normal) state. Hence, after the picker shaft isinserted, the retention tab 282 acts to produce a spring force againstthe picker shaft. This spring force results in the picker shaft beingretained (or locked) in its operating position.

[0185] Removal of the picker shaft 230 from the dispenser can occur bymoving (e.g., manually moving) the shaft in an axial direction (e.g.,relative to the shaft axis) toward the tab 282 until the drive pin keyis disengaged from the picker shaft key hole. This movement causes thetab to (further) move in a direction away from the drive pin 250.Alternatively, instead of using the picker shaft to move the taboutwardly, the tab may be directly moved by a service person's hand.With the picker shaft and drive pin disconnected, then the shaft driveend 231 (which in this example has the key hole) can be moved (e.g.,lifted or raised) in a direction radially away from the drive pin 250.The shaft drive end 231 can then be moved out of alignment with thedrive pin. The shaft can then be moved in a generally axially (andupwardly) direction away from the tab 282 to release the shaft free end233 from the supporting opening in the tab. FIG. 39 shows the dispensermodule 229 of FIG. 30 without the picker shaft and drive pin arrangementtherein.

[0186] Installation of the picker shaft 230 in the dispenser module 229can be performed as reversal of the disengagement procedure. Theopposite end is inserted into the opening located in the free end of thetab 282. The tab is manually forced (either directly by hand or via theshaft) in a direction away from the drive pin. While the tab is held ina biased condition, the drive end of the picker shaft is mated with thedrive pin. Thereafter, the tab is released. The released tab retracts(if necessary) in a direction toward the drive pin to retain the pickershaft in mating engagement with the drive pin. Thus, a picker shaft canbe quickly inserted (e.g., dropped or lowered) into or removed from itsoperating position in a dispenser module. The mating arrangement and thespring tab arrangement permit efficient securing of a picker shaft in adispenser. The use of additional hardware and fastening parts can beeliminated.

[0187] The function and operation of a picker roller, stripper roller,and a take-away roller provide for picking one sheet at a time from thestack of sheets in the cassette. FIG. 30 also shows a stripper roller286 on a pivotable shaft 290, and a take-away roller 288 on anotherpivotable shaft 292. The rollers 286, 288 can be removably mountable ontheir respective shaft. Both the stripper roller and the take-awayroller are oppositely adjacent to the center picker roller 234.

[0188] The stripper roller 286 can operate to generally prevent exit ofall but the first sheet from a currency or other sheet stack in acurrency or other sheet holding cassette. The stripper roller 286 canhave a one-way clutch or other device to permit or restrict rotationalmovement in only one direction, e.g., in a direction to return an excesscurrency note(s). The one-way clutch or other device is operative toresist rotation of the stripper roller 286 in a direction which wouldfacilitate movement of sheets other than the end sheet from the currencystack.

[0189] The take-away roller of an exemplary embodiment can freely rotateto assist in moving a currency note away from the center picker roller.The take-away roller may be driven through engagement with the centerpicker roller.

[0190] The pivotable shaft 290 is operative to pivot (or swing) thestripper roller 286 in an arcing direction away from the picker shaft230. Likewise, the pivotable shaft 292 is operative to pivot (or swing)the take-away roller 288 in an arcing direction away from the pickershaft. Of course the shafts 290, 292 can also pivot the respectiverollers 286, 288 toward the picker shaft 230. The ability to move therollers 286, 288 away from the center picker roller 234 (and each other)enables the rollers to be efficiently serviced or replaced.

[0191] A fastener member 294 is operative to hold the pivotable shaft290 of the stripper roller 286 in an operating position. Anotherfastener member 296 is likewise operative to hold the pivotable shaft292 of the take-away roller 288 in an operating position. The fasteneror retaining members 294, 296 are operative to releasably clamp apivotable shaft in a fixed operating area or range. The fastener members294, 296 can prevent substantial upward (and downward) movement of theirrespective shaft. The fastener members 294, 296 can also be used tolimit the extent of movement of a respective roller in the directiontoward the center picker roller 234. The retaining members 294, 296 areoperative to limit movement of the respective shafts 290, 292 in atleast two perpendicular directions. The fastener members 294, 296 can beattached to the dispenser module 229.

[0192] A fastener member can comprise a spring clip. The fastenermembers 294, 296 can be spring biased to produce a clamping force. Theclamping force can be set at a force level such that it can be manuallyovercome. For example, a fastener member can have a tapered entrancewith two flanges forming an opening. The opening can normally be of adiameter smaller than the diameter of a pivoting shaft. Moving apivoting shaft through the entrance can cause the opening to expand.After the pivoting shaft passes through the entrance the opening canretract to its unbiased (normal) state, thus retaining (or locking) thepivoting shaft in the fastener member.

[0193] Biasing or spring members can be used to bias the pivot shaftstoward the picker shaft. Resilient spring member 298 produces a force(e.g., push) against the pivot shaft 290 so that the stripper roller 286is properly positioned adjacent to the center picker roller 234.Likewise, another resilient spring member 299 functions to maintain thetake-away roller 288 properly positioned adjacent to (e.g., abutting)the center picker roller 234. The spring members (e.g., spring tabs) canbe cut out from the dispenser module floor. The spring members cancomprise laser cut metal. Thus, the spring members can be integral withor of one-piece construction with the dispenser. Of course thisarrangement is merely exemplary and in other embodiments otherarrangements may be used.

[0194] The spring members 298, 299 and fastener members 294, 296 canfunction together to properly position the rollers 286, 288 adjacent tothe center picker roller 234. For example, the spring member 298 andfastener member 294 enable play in the pivot shaft 290. This allows thestripper roller 286 to move (if necessary) when plural currency sheetsare simultaneously being picked.

[0195]FIG. 40 shows an arrangement of stacked dispenser modules 300,301. The modules 300, 301 may be similar to the modules previouslydiscussed. Each module may include tab supports for wires, bundles ofdiscrete wire, and/or ribbon cables. FIG. 40 further shows tabs 302,304, 306 associated with modules 300, 301. The tabs can be used to routeor guide wires so that they do not become tangled or interfere withdispensing operations. For example, a wire operatively connected to apicker drive motor may be supported via one or more tabs. The tabs cancomprise stamped in wire routing fasteners or clips. A tab can be formedfrom a module. For example, a tab can be laser cut from a module wallportion 308 (e.g., metal wall). Thus, a tab may be integral or one-piecewith a module wall. A tab may also be formed with a non-metal wall(e.g., plastic wall), such as in a plastic molding process.

[0196] A tab may be flexible, with one end attached to a module wallwhile another end is freely movable. A clip may also be spring biased toretain or lock a wire in a particular position or location. The biasingforce of a clip may be manually overcome. A free end of a clip may alsohave an inwardly directed lip or flange to assist in wire retention. Forexample, a module wall clip may be similar in shape and lip to a writingpen clip. A module may include different tabs of various shapes andsizes. FIG. 40 further shows wires 310 supported by tabs 302, and wires312 supported by both tabs 304 and 306 in the module 301. The tabs inmodule 301 can likewise support additional wires. Shielded wires can berouted against a module sheet metal surface using formed tabs. Anarrangement of wall-formed tabs can eliminate the need of additional(separate) parts to route and secure wires. It follows that the handlingof the additional parts can also be eliminated.

[0197] Furthermore, formed tabs for securing plural wire bundles can bepositioned relative to each other so as to allow additional securementof the wires. The arrangement of tabs can be predetermined so that awire bundle of a first module provides support to one or more wirebundles of an adjacent second module. For example, tabs can be arrangedso that a wire bundle of a higher module can cross over or overlap oneor more wire bundles routed from a lower module in such a way thatadditionally secures the lower bundles as they continue upward (e.g., upthe side of modules). FIG. 40 shows a higher wire bundle 312 crossingover (in the module 301) an extended lower wire bundle 314, and a higherwire bundle 310 overlapping (in the module 301) an extended lower wirebundle 316. Other arrangements for providing additional wire securementdue to crossing over or overlapping may also be used. For example, lowerwire bundles may be used to further secure higher wire bundles.Additionally, the same tab in a module may be used to support differentwire bundles from the same module or from different modules.

[0198] An exemplary form of an automated banking machine includes anadvanced function dispenser (AFD). The AFD includes one or moredispenser mechanisms operative to transport media (e.g., currency notes)from a storage area in a media cassette to a user (e.g., customer) ofthe automated banking machine. In an exemplary form of currency notedispensing, a currency note can be picked from a cassette by a notepicker mechanism. As previously discussed, the picker mechanism mayinclude a picker shaft and picker rollers. The picked note can then betransported in a first (e.g., vertical) direction via belts to a notepresenter. The presenter is operative to move the note (or stack ofnotes) in a second (e.g., horizontal) direction to present the note(s)to the user.

[0199] It should be understood that the terms vertical and horizontalare merely exemplary and that the dispenser mechanism may be configuredto transport notes in other varying directions. For example, a dispensermechanism may be positioned such that a picked note is transported in anangled (e.g., horizontal) direction via belts away from a pickermechanism toward a note presenter, and then transported in anotherangled (e.g., vertical) direction from the note presenter to the user.Alternative note transport arrangements may have a picked notetransported directly to the user without a change in transportdirection.

[0200]FIGS. 41 and 42 show an exemplary arrangement for transportingmedia in a first direction (e.g., vertical direction) in a dispenser.The arrangement can transport media from adjacent a picker mechanismtoward a presenter mechanism. FIG. 41 shows a view of the lower portionof a vertical transport mechanism 320 while FIG. 42 shows a view of theupper portion of the vertical transport mechanism 320. FIGS. 43 and 44show additional views of the upper portion. The vertical transportmechanism can be supported in a dispenser adjacent to a plurality ofstacked dispenser modules. For example, the vertical transport mechanismmay be arranged adjacent to an inner wall of the dispenser housing, withthe inner wall facing the modules' picker mechanisms.

[0201] The vertical transport mechanism 320 includes a plurality ofbelts 322, 324, 326 on corresponding rotatable rollers 330, 332, 334.The belts used in the vertical transport mechanism can be timing belts.Each roller 330, 332, 334 on an upper roller shaft 328 is matched with acorresponding roller 338, 340, 342 on a lower roller shaft 336. Theupper shaft 328 can be a drive shaft, with the upper rollers 330, 332,334 being drive rollers. The lower shaft 336 can be an idle shaft (e.g.,freely rotatable shaft or driven shaft), with the lower rollers 338,340, 342 being idle rollers. For example, belt 322 can ride on drivingroller 330 and free roller 338. The idle shaft 336 can be driven by thedrive shaft 328 via the belts.

[0202] Both the lower and upper rollers can have side flanges 344, 346to assist in retaining a belt thereon. That is, the rollers can have aconcave outer circumferential surface configuration. The concavity ofthe rollers assists in preventing belt slippage and serve to maintainthe belts in engaged relation with the rollers.

[0203] The drive shaft can have grooved timing pulleys. The upper shaftrollers 330, 332, 334 can also have teeth (e.g., bumps, slots,projections, grippers, friction members) 348 to assist in driving (e.g.,gripping) the belts. The idle shaft can have non-grooved spindles. Thelower shaft rollers 338, 340, 342 can be smooth (e.g., without teeth).FIG. 45 shows a view of upper shaft rollers without belts thereon.

[0204] The belts can be operated to vertically transport currency notes(or other types of sheet media) intermediate the belts and a transportwall 350. The transport wall may be comprised of aligned walls ofstacked dispenser modules. One face (e.g., a flat surface side) of anote can slide against the wall while the other face of the note isengaged with and driven by the belts. Each of the belts can be arrangedso that all the belts simultaneously engage the same single note. Itshould be understood that the belts can also simultaneously transportspaced notes that are sequenced back to back. For example, a second notemay be entering the belts before the first note has exited therefrom. Inan exemplary arrangement, three belts are equally spaced relative toeach other in order to grip and move a currency sheet. However, itshould be understood that a greater or fewer number of belts maybe usedto move sheets.

[0205] In an exemplary arrangement, the lower shaft 336 can bevertically movable relative to the upper shaft 328. For example, theupper shaft can be fixed from movement in a first direction (e.g.,vertical direction) relative to a housing of the machine while the lowershaft can be movable relative to the housing in the first direction. Abiasing arrangement can be used to continually bias (e.g., push) thelower shaft in a direction away from the upper shaft. FIG. 41 shows abiasing arrangement 352 including torsion springs 354 adjacent ends ofthe lower shaft 336. The springs 354 may be attached to sliding blocks355 arranged in tracks or guides. A block can be attached to the upperend of a spring 354. The vertically movable blocks 355, loaded with thesprings 354, can hold the idle shaft 336 under tension.

[0206] The ends of the lower shaft 336 can be retained in a respectivebearing flange 337 that is slidable in a sheet metal slot 359 in thedispenser housing. The flange 337 can be guided in the slot 359 viatongue and groove arrangements 353. FIG. 41 shows a flange 337 extendingon both sides of a slot 359. Each bearing flange 337 can be attached tothe lower end of a spring 354. A spring guide 356 is attached to thebearing flanges 337. The blocks 355 also have spring guides 357.

[0207] The spring loaded lower shaft 336 can maintain the belts in astate of tension (e.g., keeping the belts tight) even though they mayhave stretched over a time period. As the belts stretch the blocks (andbearing flanges) fall due to gravity, causing the belts to be kept intension. The spring force, block weight, and bearing flange weight canbe predetermined to maintain the necessary tension in the belts. Thespring arrangement can be operative to maintain the belts at generallythe same tension force throughout movement of the lower shaft. Thespring loaded lower shaft arrangement assists in preventing beltslippage.

[0208] The biasing arrangement 352 may also include a ratchetarrangement. One or more ratchet devices can be ratcheted one-way sothat the lower shaft cannot move (e.g., upwardly) toward the upper shaftto reduce belt tension. Several different ratchet arrangements can beused. For example, the blocks can be attached to a ratchet device. Ablock ratchet device prevents the block from backtracking (e.g., movingupwardly). Likewise, the bearing flanges can be respectively attached toratchet devices to prevent their backtracking. In other ratchetarrangements, the ratchet device may include spring loaded cams whichonly permit one-way movement of a first cylinder (or shaft or pin)relative to a second cylinder. The cylinders may be telescoping. Again,the lower shaft biasing arrangement enables the belts to be kept at atightness which permits them to be driven to transport the notes.

[0209]FIGS. 42-45 also show that the upper roller shaft 328 can besupportingly positioned in a supporting frame 358. One end of the uppershaft can be positioned in an opening 360 in the frame while the otherend can be seated in a slotted opening 362 in the frame. In otherarrangements, both ends of the drive shaft can be seated in slottedopenings. Thus, the drive shaft can be quickly positioned in thedispenser frame. Once the drive shaft is positioned in the frame, thenit can be retained or trapped in its position by closure of a platen orcover 364. The installed cover 364 prevents removal of the drive shaftfrom the slot 362.

[0210]FIGS. 42 and 45 further show rotatable guide rollers 366, 368,370. The guide rollers may be part of a note presenter mechanism. Thepresenter can include the guide rollers on a shaft. The guide rollersare operative to abut or push into the belts 322, 324, 326 to direct orguide the notes therefrom. The guide rollers are operative to abut orpush into the belts 322, 324, 326 to direct or guide the notestherefrom. The guide rollers are operative to provide curvature to thebelts. The guide rollers impart directional curvature to a note leavingthe belts. The guide rollers can rotate in conformity with the belts tomove a note therebetween in the same direction. The notes are guided bythe guide rollers toward the presenter.

[0211] As shown in FIG. 42, the guide rollers 366, 368, 370 canrespectively partially extend beneath the drive rollers 330, 332, 334.Thus, the belts 322, 324, 326 can also ride on the guide rollers. Thecurvature and position of the guide rollers relative to the driverollers permit notes to be separated (or removed) and guided away fromthe vertical belts. The curved positioning of the guide rollers againstthe belts enables the notes to leave the belts and ride on the guiderollers. In an exemplary arrangement, gravity causes the notes to leavethe belts. In another exemplary arrangement, the guide rollers contain anote gripping sticky cover material. As shown in more detail in FIG. 45,the guide rollers 366, 368, 370 can have a dish-shaped (e.g., concave)outer circumferential surface portion. The concavity of a guide rollercan assist in maintaining or retaining a belt thereon.

[0212]FIG. 46 shows an exemplary arrangement for transporting media in a(horizontal) direction substantially perpendicular to the transportingdirection of the vertical transport mechanism 320. FIG. 46 shows a viewof a horizontal transport mechanism 372 of a media dispenser. Thetransport mechanism 372 can be part of a note presenter 375. The notepresenter can be removably attached to the top of a dispenser module.The transport mechanism 372 can include the previously discussedrotatable guide rollers 366, 368, 370.

[0213] The horizontal transport 372 includes paddle wheels 374 rotatableon a common paddle wheel shaft 376. Currency notes leaving the verticalbelts 322, 324, 326 of vertical transport mechanism 320 can be engagedby the paddle wheels 374. The paddle wheels 374 are operative to cause anote to transfer from the vertical transport mechanism 320 to thehorizontal transport mechanism 372.

[0214] The paddle wheels 374 each include a plurality of individualpaddles 378. The paddles can be flexible and/or noodle-like but withsufficient resiliency to impart a force to urge sheets to move. Eachpaddle wheel can have its paddles angularly aligned with the paddles ofthe other wheels. Therefore, at least one paddle on each wheel cancontact a note at substantially the same (simultaneous) time.Commonality of engagement with a note permits the note to remain inrelatively fixed alignment during engagement with the paddle wheels.This aligned simultaneous note engagement enables the paddle wheels tomove a note without substantially twisting or skewing the note.

[0215] The paddles 378 are operative to engage a note leaving the guiderollers 366, 368, 370. The paddles 378 can direct the note to a notestacking tray 380 where plural notes can be stacked one upon another.The tray has rails 381 on which the generated stack can rest. The rails381 have reduced or tapered end surfaces 382 for corresponding passageof the outer circumference surface of a respective paddle 378. A taperedsurface permits the tip or distal end of a paddle to avoid (or slightlycontact) the tray during its rotation. The use of the tapered endsurfaces 382 can extend the life of the paddles 378.

[0216] In an exemplary arrangement, the presenter 375 includes apresenter floor rail arrangement 420. As shown in FIG. 46, slots 383 inthe tray rails 381 are configured to receive an end portion 387 of floorrails 422, 423, 424. The slots 383 can be open at one end. The taperedends of the tray rails 381 include an extended portion 379 that isoperative to be matingly aligned with separated portions 371 of thefloor rails 422, 423, 424. As can be seen in FIG. 46, the extendedportions 379 of the tray rails 381 are axially movable in a respectiveslot 373. The slots 373 also guide the tray 380 during its axialmovement. Likewise, tray guides 369 can be positioned adjacent the tray380 to guide the other end of the tray 380 during its axial movement.The slots 383 enable the tray to ride on the tray guides 369. Thus, thetray 380 can be raised to horizontally align the tray rails 381 with thefloor rails 422, 423, 424. A fully raised tray results in the tray railsand the floor rails sharing a common plane. A fully raised tray causeseach set of the three horizontally aligned rails (e.g., rails 371, 381,422 at same elevation) to act as a single rail.

[0217] Adjacent raised guide floor rails 422, 423, 424 produce aparallel channel or groove therebetween: The bottom or base of the pushdevice 390 can have projections that can correspondingly mate into thechannels. The male/female relationships of the rails and base enable thepush device to accurately slide in parallel alignment relative to thepresenter floor rails. This parallel movement of the push device alsoenables the push device to realign and rerail belts so as to assure beltengagement with the supporting rolls.

[0218] The dispenser can include a divert container (or cassette). Adivert container is operative to receive and store therein divertedmedia. Diverted media (e.g., currency notes, sheets or bills) can bethat which was determined to have some type of problem (e.g., anunacceptable media condition) by the automated banking machine and isnot to be presented to a user (e.g., unpresentable media). For example,a note which failed a test by a note validator may be sent to a divertcontainer. A dispenser may include a divert container located adjacentto (e.g., beneath) the presenter. The note tray 380 can be arranged topivot to removably drop unacceptable notes into the divert container. Anote tray may be adjacent blocking structure that keeps notes frominadvertently entering (or falling) into the divert container. Forexample, the tray guides 369 can be used to prevent notes from leavingthe tray during note stacking, yet allow the tray to tilt to releasenotes into a divert cassette. The open ended tray slots 383 enable theend of the tray to pass through the tray guides 369 during the tiltingof the note tray 380.

[0219]FIG. 47 shows an exemplary presenter belt arrangement. After apresenter note tray is filled with the desired number and/ordenomination of notes, then the tray 380, with the note stack thereon,can be lifted to proceed with presenting the note stack to a user. Thepresenter belt arrangement is operative to movingly engage the top of alifted note stack. The presenter belts 384,386,388 rotate on rollers 394of shafts 396, 398. The tray 380 is raised with the note stackeventually engaging the presenter belts.

[0220]FIG. 47 also shows a push device 390 including a push plate 392.The presenter belts 384,386,388 are operative to move the push device390 therewith. In alternative arrangements, the push device can be movedindependently of the belts. The push plate 392 can engagingly push anote stack as the push device 390 moves parallel to the aligned belts384, 386, 388. The presenter belts can pass through respective openings393 in the push plate. The push plate can surround the belts. That is,the belts can be trapped in the push plate. The push plate is operativeto move along the belts to push at least a portion of a note stack in auser presenting direction. Thus, the presenter belts can work togetherwith the push plate 392 to transport the notes as a stack.

[0221] The push device 390 is located in a starting position behind theraised note stack. The positioning enables the push device to receiveand push the note stack toward the presenter exit. During transport thenote stack can be contacted by the belts 384, 386, 388, the push plate392, and one or more walls (e.g., floor) of the presenter. The floor ofa presenter can include one or more raised rails on which a note stackcan ride or slide. The raised rails can engage the notes with a smallersurface that results in less friction and smoother note sliding. Thepush device 390 can further include guides 391 to assist in keeping anote stack in alignment with the push plate. In an exemplary stackmoving process, a note stack is moved by the belts 384, 386, 388 andpush plate 392 from the note tray 380 toward a user in a direction awayfrom the paddle wheels 374.

[0222] The push device 390 is able to assist in realigning and rerailingthe belts. The belts 384, 386, 388, shaft rollers 394, and push device390 are arranged relative to each other to cause automatic rerailing ofthe belts. That is, the arrangement can cause self realignment of a beltrelative to its rollers.

[0223] The shaft rollers 394 are configured to assist in realigning thebelts 384, 386, 388. The rollers 394 can be crowned (e.g., convexlytapered). The outer circumferential surface of a crowned roller 394includes a center (rail) portion 397 located between tapering portions395. The center portion has a larger diameter than the taperingportions. The center portion 397 can comprise a non-taperingsubstantially flat plateau or rail on which a belt can ride. Thediameter of each tapering portion 395 narrows in a direction extendingaway from the center portion 397.

[0224] The push plate 392 can assist in realigning the belts 384, 386,388. As previously discussed, the belts can be trapped in the pushplate. Should a belt become disengaged far enough from one (or both) ofits rollers 394, then movement (horizontally) of the push device 390 isoperative to engagingly move or return the disengaged belt close enoughto a taper 395 of the empty crowned roller 394. Once the belt reachesthe roller taper 395, it can climb the taper to the center 397 of theroller. Thus, the arrangement of crown rollers 394 and the push plate392 permits the belts 384, 386, 388 to be automatically readjusted,realigned, and/or rerailed on the crown rollers 394.

[0225] The roller shafts 396, 398 can also be vertically movable tocompensate for varying stack heights or thicknesses. The shafts may bespring biased in a (downward) direction toward a note stack. Forexample, a biasing arrangement similar to the previously discussedbiasing arrangement 352 for the idle shaft 336 may be used. Thus, thebelts are operative to engage different sized stacks. It follows thatthe presenter is operative to present different sized stacks of currencynotes to a user.

[0226] In an exemplary note transport process, notes are guided into thenote stacking tray 380 by the paddle wheels 374 to form a note stack inthe note presenter 375. The note stack rests on the tray rails 381. Thenote tray 380 is raised until the tray bottom is substantially alignedwith a presenter floor 426. A fully raised tray also causes the trayrails 381 to be respectively aligned with the floor rails 422, 423, 424.With the rails in substantial alignment, the push device 390 isoperative to push a note stack out of the tray 380 and onto the floorrails of the note presenter. The push device is further operative topush the note stack along the floor rails toward the roller shaft 398and the presenter exit.

[0227] A stack of currency notes may be presented to a user through apresenter gate arrangement. The gate arrangement can be a part of thepresenter 375. The gate arrangement can include a gate or door or cover.FIG. 48 shows a presenter gate arrangement 400 having a gate 402 in aclosed position.

[0228] The gate 402 is movable in a substantially vertical (e.g.,upward) direction. The gate is upwardly movable to a position behind aframe member (or portion) 404 of the presenter housing 421. The framemember 404 may be a plate attached to or integral with a security cover405. The gate arrangement has at least one cam arm 408 operativelyconnected (or integral or one-piece) with the gate 402. The presenterhousing 421 includes at least one actuator lever 410 having an angledslot 414. The lever 410 is linked with the arm 408. The arm 408 includesa projection 412 (e.g., shaft or bushing or pin) which is operative toride or slide in the lever slot 414. An exemplary form of the gatearrangement includes two actuator levers 410, two (dual) arms 408attached to the gate 402 at respective opposite sides thereof, and eacharm 408 having a shaft 412 slidable in a respective lever slot 414.FIGS. 61 and 62 show a dual cam arm arrangement.

[0229] It should be understood that other gate arrangements foroperating the gate 402 are within the scope of the invention. Forexample, a gate arrangement can comprise only one cam and one lever,instead of a pair. Another gate arrangement can have the slot angleddifferently. For example, contrary to shown slot 414, the higher end ofthe angled slot can be positioned further from the gate than the lowerend. A further gate arrangement can include having the angled slot inthe cam arm (instead of the lever), and having the shaft for riding inthe slot on the actuator lever (instead of with the cam arm). Additionalshaft/slot configurations may be used.

[0230]FIG. 49 shows an additional view of the gate 402 in a closedposition. In FIG. 49 the frame member 404 has not been shown to provideadditional clarity.

[0231]FIG. 50 shows a view of the gate arrangement 400 with thepresenter gate 402 in an open position. The gate 402 is partly hiddenbehind frame member 404. FIGS. 51-53 show alternative views of the gatearrangement 400 with the presenter gate in an open position. Forclarity, not all of the gate arrangement components are shown in each ofthe Figures. For example, in FIG. 51 the frame member 404 has not beenshown so that the gate 402 may be viewed in an upward open position.

[0232] During a gate opening procedure, axial actuation of the lever 410(e.g., in a direction away from the gate) causes the gate arm shaft 412to move upwardly along the angled slot 414. Movement of the shaft 412 upthe slot 414 causes the end of the cam arm 408 adjacent to the gate 402to pivot upwardly. The arm end is attached to the gate. Movement of thearm end upwardly causes the gate to also move upwardly. A note stack canbe presented to a user when the gate is in an open position. The notescan pass through the open area or passage 415 created by the moved gate.

[0233] The actuator lever 410 can be used to drive the stack pusherdevice 390. The push device 390 and the lever 410 can be linked in areverse drive arrangement. For example, the push device 390 can engage adrive chain, cable or rope connected to the lever 410. The chain can bearranged to travel about a pulley or roller. As the push device 390moves toward the gate 402 it engages the drive chain. Further movementof the push device 390 causes the chain to move about the pulley.Movement of the chain results in the lever 410 being pulled in adirection away from the gate. The lever 410 can be spring-loaded toreturn to its original gate closing position.

[0234] Alternatively, the push device 390 and the lever 410 can belinked in a direct drive arrangement. Such direct drive is permitted,for example, by having the lever with the angled slot positioned withits higher end located further from the gate than its lower end. Thepush device 390 can directly engage and push the lever 410 toward thegate. As the lever 410 is pushed, the cam arm pin 412 rides up theangled slot causing the gate to open.

[0235] Other mechanisms can be used to drive a lever 410, such as amotor. If plural actuator levers 410 are used (e.g., one on each side ofthe presenter housing 421), then they may be linked so that they arecommonly driven, such as by a common motor. Motor actuation of a lever410 can be timed so that its gate opening operation corresponds with thearrival of a note stack. Position sensors can be used in the presenter375 to indicate the arrival of a note stack. The sensors can notify acontroller (e.g., computer) to cause the motor to open the gate. Thelever(s) can be set to move a predetermined axial distance to ensurethat the gate moves a predetermined vertical distance to completelyopen. The angled slot can also be of a predetermined angle and length toensure proper gate movement.

[0236] In other exemplary arrangements the gate can be only partiallyopened based on the stack size (height). That is, the gate may not needto be fully opened to permit exit of a note stack. Other sensors or notecounters can inform the controller the size of the note stack. Thecontroller can determine the distance the gate should be opened to allowpassage of the particular note stack. Based on the determined gatedistance, the controller can further determine the correspondingdistance that the lever needs to be moved. The controller can then causethe lever to be moved only the determined axial distance. The ability toopen the gate only the necessary or minimum distance is an additionalsecurity feature of the presenter gate arrangement. The smaller thehousing opening presented to a user, then the smaller the ability fortampering through the opening.

[0237] A portion of the gate can also be matingly arranged to move on aninner track or rail of the housing frame to guide and align the gateduring its movement. The gate portion can also remain in the inner trackwhen the gate is in a closed position.

[0238] The note presenter 375 has further security features to preventand/or reduce unlawful tampering. As previously mentioned, the gatearrangement can include a security cover 405. The cover can include the(front) frame member 404 and side flange members 406. The note presenter375 can be positioned in an ATM such that the gate 402 faces a customeraccessible outlet opening in the ATM. The cover members 404, 406 canassist in preventing customer access to the inner components or workingsof the presenter. The cover side flange member 406 can also preventaccess to the cam arm 408, the actuator lever 410, and the connectionbetween the gate 402 and the cam arm 408.

[0239]FIG. 51 shows a security plate 416 having an end with a flange lip418 protruding downwardly. The lip 418 can prevent user entry into anarea underneath the presenter. The opposite end of the security plate416 may be attached at a location inside the presenter housing frame.The location being unattainable to a user. The opposite end may have aflange which fastens into a housing slot.

[0240] As previously mentioned, the presenter floor rail arrangement 420can include rails 422, 423, 424 on which a note stack can slide. A notestack may consist of a single note or a plurality of stacked notes.FIGS. 54-55 show another view of the presenter floor rail arrangement420 having the outer rails 424 and the center rails 422, 423 adjacentthe presenter floor 426. The center rails 422, 423 can have a greaterlength than the outer rails 424. The center rails 422, 423 can also haveat least one flexible portion, the use of which is describedhereinafter.

[0241]FIGS. 56-57 show views of an end of the center rail 423. The shownend can be placed nearest to the note passage area 415. Each center railhas a rail end including both a flanged finger 432 and a flexible finger434. The flexible finger 434 is able to twist (or rotate) relative tothe remainder of the rail body 423. The flexible finger 434 can comprisea spring finger. The spring finger may impart an upward spring bias.

[0242] The roller shaft 398, previously discussed in regard to FIG. 47,is vertically movable relative to the rail fingers 432, 434. An exitingstack of notes passes between the rail fingers and the crowned rollers394. FIG. 54 (and FIG. 59) shows a relatively large note stack 430(e.g., plural stacked notes) adjacent to a crown roller shaft 398 andthe note passage area 415. FIG. 55 (and FIG. 58) shows a view similar toFIG. 54 but with a relatively smaller note stack 428 (e.g., a singlenote) at the note passage area 415. FIGS. 54 and 55 show that the rollershaft 398 is vertically movable to permit the presentation of differentsized note stacks. The ends of the roller shaft 398 can be movable inrespective guide slots 419 in the presenter housing 421. The larger thestack, the further the roller shaft 398 is elevated. The roller shaft398 can be arranged to rest in its lowermost slot position. The shaft398 can be arranged to slide upward in the slots 419 to an elevationcorresponding to the size of the note stack. The relationship of thebelts 384, 386, 388 to a note stack can assist in raising (or pullingupward) the shaft 398.

[0243] As explained in more detail herein, the rail ends can form waveor waffle contours in sheets. A lip 436 of the flanged finger 432 canextend to overlap the previously discussed (e.g., FIG. 51) flanged lip418 of the security plate 416. That is, an end of the center flexiblerail 423 can project in a downward direction outside of the security lip418. The flanged finger 432 can also include an extending transverseportion 431. The transverse portion 431 may be fastened to or integrallyformed with the rail 423. The transverse portion 431 includes a verticalsegment 429 having a raised hump 438 extending therefrom.

[0244] A process of securing a center rail 423 in the presenter caninclude having the flanged finger lip 436 tightly abutting the securitylip 418 while the other end of the center rail is secured in thepresenter housing adjacent to the note stacking tray 380. Furthermore,the rails (i.e., center and outer rails) can be held in place by havinga plurality of spaced securing flanges 437, 439 positioned underneathcorresponding tabs (e.g., spring tabs) on the presenter floor 426. Whenthe gate 402 is in a closed state then the center rails 422, 423 and thesecurity plate 416 are positioned behind the gate, and are protectedfrom user access by the gate structure.

[0245] A stack of notes can be exited from the presenter in a relativelyhorizontal state. The flexible rails 422, 423 are operative, inconjunction with the crowned rollers 394, to produce a wavy (or“waffle”) configuration to notes exiting the presenter. The center railfingers 432, 434 are positioned opposite to the smaller diameter portion395 of the crowned rollers 394. The spring fingers 434 are biased upwardinto the open gate area. The positional relationship of spring fingers434 intermediate crowned rollers can cause a wave configuration to beimparted to notes and stacks exiting the presenter. The spring fingerscan be aligned relative to the rollers 394 such that each spring finger434 is aligned opposite a tapering portion 395. The raised hump portion438 of the flanged finger 432 can also contribute to the “waffle”effect. The raised hump portion 438 can be aligned opposite the outertapered portions of the outermost rollers.

[0246] The “waffle” effect on a note stack adds or causes stiffening tothin, flexible note stacks. This stiffening makes it easier to move anote stack through the note passage area 415. The stiffening can preventthe leading end of a note from drooping downward as it exits the crownedrollers. Contrarily, notes exiting from the presenter without theimparted wavy configuration would tend to immediately curl downward.Impartation of the wavy configuration to notes can reduce note jams andalso increase security. An example of a wavy configuration imparted to anote stack 428 can be found in FIG. 55.

[0247] A spring finger 434 is operative to permit both large note stacksand single sheets to pass thereon. A large note stack 430 (due to thegreater weight of the stack) can compress the spring finger downwardagainst its spring force a distance greater than a smaller note stack428 is capable. A heavy stack may even flatten (e.g., press the springfinger 434 to its lowest position) the waffle rail arrangement. However,a large stack of notes is less likely to immediately curl downward. Thatis, large note stacks may not require any wavy configuration.Nevertheless, the bottom note of a large stack would still contact thetransverse portion 431. The arrangement of the rail fingers 432, 434permits wavy impartation to those note stacks which are most in need ofa wavy configuration. That is, the flexible rail fingers 432, 434, dueto the greater vertical extension of the spring fingers 434, areoperative to create a greater wavy impartation to a smaller (thinner)stack of notes. The amount of waviness created in a stack can bedirectly proportionate to the size of the note stack.

[0248]FIGS. 58-59 show additional views of note stacks exiting apresenter. A crowned roller arrangement is also shown. The crownedroller 394 includes a convex taper 395 and a plateau 397. FIG. 58 showsa small note stack 428 (which may be a sole sheet) receiving a largewavy impartation. FIG. 59 shows a large note stack 430 receiving a small(if any) wavy impartation.

[0249]FIGS. 58 and 59 also show that fingers of the flexible rails 422,423 can be differently positioned. For example, as shown in facing FIG.58, rail 422 has its spring finger 435 to its right side, whereas rail423 has its spring finger 434 to its left side. Thus, the spring fingers434, 435 are intermediate the flanged fingers 432, 433. Othercombinations of flanged finger and the spring finger arrangements can beused. For example, an arrangement of flexible rails may include railshaving only the configuration of the rails 423.

[0250]FIG. 60 shows an additional view of a presenter gate arrangement401 having a gate 403 in a closed position.

[0251]FIGS. 61 and 62 show additional angled views taken from oppositesides of a dual cam arm arrangement. Cam arms 409, 411 are shown. An endof each cam arm includes a pivot point 413. The pivot point 413 cancomprise a pivot pin or a pivot shaft hole. The cam arm is operative topivot about the axis of the pivot point 413 as the cam arm pin 417 ridesupward in the angled slot of an actuator lever.

[0252]FIG. 63 shows a perspective view of a shell 440 of a presenterhousing frame.

[0253] Thus the exemplary embodiments achieve one or more of the abovestated objectives, eliminates difficulties encountered in the use ofprior devices and methods, solves problems, and attains the desiredresults described herein.

[0254] In the foregoing description certain terms have been used forbrevity, clarity and understanding, however, no unnecessary limitationsare to be implied therefrom because such terms are intended fordescriptive purposes only and are intended to be broadly construed.Moreover, the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way ofexamples and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown anddescribed.

[0255] In the following claims, any feature described as a means forperforming a function shall be construed as encompassing any means knownto those skilled in the art to be capable of performing the recitedfunction and shall not be deemed limited to the particular structureshown herein or equivalents thereof.

[0256] Having described the features, discoveries and principles of theinvention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, and theadvantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures,devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems,operations, methods and relationships are set forth in the appendedclaims.

We claim:
 1. An apparatus including: a cassette, wherein the cassette isremovably mountable in an automated banking machine dispenser module,wherein the cassette is operative to hold media therein, wherein thecassette includes a flexible door, wherein the door is operative toautomatically open during insertion of the cassette into the dispensermodule, wherein magnitude of door openness is proportional to cassetteinsertion distance.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein thedoor includes a push pin engaging portion, wherein the engaging portionis operative to engage a dispenser module push pin to cause opening ofthe door during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module. 3.The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the engaging portion isoperative to engage the push pin throughout opening of the door.
 4. Theapparatus according to claim 3 wherein the engaging portion is operativeto be relatively pushed against the push pin to cause opening of thedoor during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module.
 5. Theapparatus according to claim 4 wherein the door comprises a tambour doorhaving integrally attached parallel strips, wherein the tambour door isoperative to move in two substantially perpendicular directions.
 6. Theapparatus according to claim 4 wherein the engaging portion includes afemale portion, wherein the female portion is operative to receive amale portion of the push pin during insertion of the cassette into thedispenser module, wherein the female portion is operative to mate withthe male portion throughout opening of the door.
 7. The apparatusaccording to claim 6 wherein the female portion comprises an opening,and wherein the male portion comprises a pin head.
 8. The apparatusaccording to claim 7 wherein the door includes a channel, wherein whenthe door is closed the channel is operative to receive and guide themale portion toward the female portion.
 9. The apparatus according toclaim 8 wherein when the door is partly open the channel is inoperativeto receive the male portion.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 6wherein the engaging portion includes a lip adjacent the female portion,wherein the lip is operative to engage a body portion of the push pinthroughout opening of the door.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 2wherein the cassette comprises a currency cassette, and wherein thecurrency cassette is operative to hold currency therein.
 12. Theapparatus according to claim 2 and further comprising an automatedbanking machine dispenser module including a push pin, wherein thecassette includes a cassette housing, wherein during opening of the doorthe cassette housing moves into the dispenser module while the door andpin remain stationary relative to the dispenser module.
 13. Theapparatus according to claim 12 wherein the door is fully open when thecassette is filly inserted into the dispenser module.
 14. The apparatusaccording to claim 13 wherein the push pin includes a pin head and a pinbody, wherein the door includes an opening and a flange, wherein atleast a portion of the pin head is operative to enter the opening duringinsertion of the cassette into the dispenser module, wherein the flangeis operative to engage the pin body to cause opening of the door duringinsertion of the cassette into the dispenser module.
 15. A method ofopening the door of the apparatus recited in claim 2, comprising: (a)engaging the door with a push pin of a dispenser module; (b) partlyinserting the cassette into the dispenser module a first insertiondistance to cause the door to partly open; (c) subsequent to (b),further inserting the cassette into the dispenser module to cause thedoor to further open; (d) subsequent to (c), fully inserting thecassette into the dispenser module, wherein the door is fully open whenthe cassette is fully inserted into the dispenser module.
 16. Anapparatus including: a cassette, wherein the cassette is removablymountable in an automated banking machine dispenser module having a pushpin with a pin head and pin body, wherein the cassette is operative tohold media therein, wherein the cassette includes a tambour door,wherein the door is operative to automatically open during insertion ofthe cassette into the dispenser module, wherein magnitude of dooropenness is proportional to cassette insertion distance, wherein thedoor includes integrally attached parallel strips, wherein the door isoperative to move in two substantially perpendicular directions, whereinthe door includes a push pin engaging portion, wherein the engagingportion is operative to engage the push pin, wherein the engagingportion includes an opening, wherein the opening is operative to receivethe pin head during insertion of the cassette into the dispenser module,wherein the engaging portion includes a lip adjacent the opening,wherein the lip is operative to be relatively pushed against the pinbody to cause opening of the door during insertion of the cassette intothe dispenser module, wherein the lip is operative to engage the pinbody throughout opening of the door, wherein the door includes achannel, wherein when the door is closed the channel is operative toreceive and guide the pin head toward the opening, wherein when the dooris partly open the channel is inoperative to receive the pin head. 17.The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein the cassette comprises acurrency cassette, and wherein the currency cassette is operative tohold currency therein.
 18. The apparatus according to claim 16 andfurther comprising an automated banking machine dispenser moduleincluding a push pin, wherein the push pin includes a pin head and a pinbody, wherein when the door is closed the channel is operative to guidethe pin head toward the opening, wherein the pin head is operative tomate with the opening, wherein the lip is operative to engage the pinbody while the pin head mates with the opening, wherein engagement ofthe lip and pin body causes opening of the door during insertion of thecassette into the dispenser module.